Death of girl, 11, not investigated as crime

The death of an 11-year-old girl whose body was found in a park is not being treated as a criminal investigation, police have said.

The girl, who was earlier named by West Mercia Police as Miya, was found near a village cricket ground in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire, after being reported missing late on Sunday evening.

Ch Insp Daniel Pilkington said the force had "ruled out third-party involvement" in her death and found no evidence of suspicious circumstances.

"We hope this update addresses some of the speculation that has circulated in recent days," he said, asking people to "think of Miya's family before posting online".

Harriet Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, had previously asked people not to speculate after news of the incident was shared widely online.

"We understand that people often turn to social media in moments of shock and sadness," Pilkington added.

"However, speculation and sharing unverified information can cause additional distress to a family already living through every parent's worst nightmare."

A full file would now be prepared for the coroner, Pilkington said, adding: "At the heart of this tragedy is a family who have lost a daughter and sister.

"We understand that naturally people want answers when something so tragic happens, and that uncertainty can be difficult," he said, explaining that officers had "worked tirelessly" to establish the circumstances around Miya's death.

"We are also mindful of the impact this tragedy has had on the wider community in Elmley Castle," he continued.

"We want to thank them for the support and kindness they have shown the family and our officers whilst we carried out our enquiries."

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