The family of Aria Thorpe, the nine-year-old girl who tragically died from a knife wound last December, have been praised by police for their “exceptional courage” throughout the recent trial.
Aria was fatally injured at her home in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, on December 15, 2023. A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named due to legal restrictions, was charged with murder and manslaughter in connection with her death.
On May 25, a jury at Bristol Crown Court found the teenager not guilty of both charges. The court heard that the injury occurred during what the boy described as play-fighting, insisting the stabbing was accidental and without intent to harm Aria.
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Detective Inspector Neil Meade expressed his sympathies and commended Aria’s family for their strength during this difficult time. He said, “Aria was a joyful, beloved child whose loss has touched many. Her family has shown remarkable resilience over the past six months, especially during the trial.”
DI Meade also emphasized the importance of respecting the family’s privacy now that the trial has concluded. He urged the public and media to continue showing compassion and abide by the legal protections in place, especially those safeguarding the identity of the teenager involved.