Police update as girl, 11, found dead in park and family face 'unimaginable loss'

Police update as girl, 11, found dead in park and family face 'unimaginable loss' Police have said the death of an 11-year-old girl, whose body was found in a park in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire, is not being treated as a criminal investigation Police have provided an update following the death of an 11-year-old girl, whose body was found in a park. The youngster, named as Miya, was reported missing by her family in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire, and her body was later found in the park near to a cricket ground on Sunday. A major investigation was launched but West Mercia Police has said that following "extensive enquiries" the death is not being treated as a criminal investigation. Chief Inspector Daniel Pilkington has spoken of the "tragedy" for the family who have lost a daughter and a sister. He said the thoughts of the police are with them and everyone who knew her. He said: “Over recent days, we have shared updates with you following the tragic death of 11-year-old Miya, the 11-year-old girl who was sadly found deceased in Elmley Castle in Worcestershire. “At the heart of this tragedy is a family who have lost a daughter and sister. Our thoughts remain with them, her friends and everyone who knew and loved her as they face an unimaginable loss. “We know news like this is deeply upsetting. It has shocked the local community and touched the hearts of people far beyond it. “We understand that naturally people want answers when something so tragic happens, and that uncertainty can be difficult. Our officers have worked tirelessly and thoroughly to establish the circumstances surrounding her death. We have kept an open mind and examined all available lines of enquiry. “Following these detailed and extensive enquiries, we can confirm that we have found no evidence of suspicious circumstances or any third-party involvement in her death, and it is not being treated as a criminal investigation. “A full file will now be prepared for HM Coroner, who will consider the circumstances of her death in due course, as is the standard process." CI Pilkington called on people not to speculate on what happened for the sake of the girl's family. He added: “We hope this update addresses some of the speculation that has circulated in recent days. We understand that people often turn to social media in moments of shock and sadness. "However, speculation and sharing unverified information can cause additional distress to a family already living through every parent’s worst nightmare. “We would ask everyone to consider this impact carefully, and think of Miya’s family before posting online. We are also mindful of the impact this tragedy has had on the wider community in Elmley Castle. We want to thank them for the support and kindness they have shown the family and our officers whilst we carried out our enquiries.” West Mercia Police said today: "Detailed and extensive enquiries have ruled out third-party involvement in the death of an 11-year-old girl in Elmley Castle and police have confirmed her death is not being treated as a criminal investigation. "The girl was sadly found in the park near to the cricket ground on Sunday 4 October. Over the past few days police have carried out enquiries to understand the circumstances around her death."