Boy arrested on suspicion of murdering nine-year-old girl

Police have arrested a teenage boy on suspicion of murder following the death of a nine-year-old girl in Somerset.

Emergency services were called to an address in Lime Close, in the Mead Vale area of Weston-super-Mare, at 6.09pm on Monday. The young victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

A police cordon remains in place in Lime Close, and an investigation is under way, including house-to-house enquiries. A teenage boy was arrested in the Somerset village of Worle at 6.19pm and remains in custody, according to police.

Superintendent Jen Appleford, from the Avon and Somerset force, said: "We know the whole of Weston-super-Mare will be distraught and shocked to learn of this utterly dreadful news. "The girl's family were informed last night of what had happened.

It is impossible for us to adequately put into words the pain and anguish they are feeling right now. "Our heartfelt condolences go out to them, and we'll ensure they receive support from a specially trained officer." She noted that the formal identification process has not yet been completed, and that a post-mortem examination will also be carried out.

Superintendent Appleford added: "We have no doubt the community will come together as one in response to this tragedy. "Enquiries are being carried out at the property as part of our investigation and we'd ask for people's patience and understanding while that work is undertaken.

"We will ensure our officers are available to provide reassurance and support to all." The leader of North Somerset Council, Mike Bell, said: "I am shocked and saddened by this incident at a home in the Mead Vale area yesterday. "My thoughts are with all those affected, particularly the family and friends of the girl who has lost her life." Councillor Bell added: "An arrest has been made, police investigations are live and the community will, I am sure, pull together to support each other at this difficult time.".