A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a nine-year-old girl in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that officers were called to Lime Close in the Mead Vale area at about 6:09pm on Monday, where the child was found seriously injured and later pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect was arrested 10 minutes later in nearby Worle and remains in police custody.
Police have established a cordon around the area and are carrying out house-to-house inquiries as part of an ongoing investigation.
A post-mortem examination is expected to take place.
Speaking at the scene on Tuesday, Superintendent Jen Appleford said the incident had deeply shocked the local community.
“We know the whole of Weston-super-Mare will be distraught and shocked to learn of this utterly dreadful news,” she said, adding that the girl’s family had been informed and were experiencing “immense pain and anguish.”
Superintendent Appleford urged members of the public to avoid speculation about the circumstances or identities involved, saying such actions would only increase the family’s distress.
Police have reassured residents that there is no known risk to the wider public, although an increased police presence will remain in the area in the coming days.
North Somerset Council leader Mike Bell described the incident as “shocking and heartbreaking,” offering condolences to the victim’s family and friends.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the girl’s death are continuing.
