Nine-year-old Aria Thorpe tragically lost her life due to a single stab wound to the chest at her home in Weston-super-Mare, an inquest opening has revealed.
Paramedics pronounced the “beautiful and kind” young girl dead at the scene at 6:58 pm on December 15. Following the incident, a 15-year-old boy—whose identity is protected due to his age—was charged with her murder.
Coroner’s officer Andrew Eastwood told Avon Coroners’ Court on Friday: “The deceased died at her home address from a stab wound to her chest.”
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Dr. Peter Harrowing, the Avon area coroner, ordered the full post-mortem report to be submitted by February 16. He named Aria’s family and the alleged perpetrator as interested parties.
Due to ongoing legal proceedings, Dr. Harrowing announced the case would not immediately proceed to a full inquest but will be reviewed on April 10. He emphasized this review would not constitute a court hearing and any further coronial steps would depend on the outcome of police and criminal investigations.
The teenage suspect made his first appearance at Bristol Crown Court on December 17. Judge Peter Blair KC, the Recorder of Bristol, has set a provisional trial date for June 15, with the trial expected to last approximately two weeks.
Avon and Somerset Police responded to the scene on Mead Vale in Weston-super-Mare after paramedics called emergency services at 6:09 pm on December 15.
In heartfelt tributes, Aria’s father, Tom Thorpe, described his daughter as “a brave, kind-hearted and beautiful innocent soul” who brought joy to those around her with her playful spirit. He shared cherished memories of family moments, including a touching visit to Disneyland, capturing the light in Aria’s eyes during a princess show.
Aria’s extended family echoed these sentiments, remembering her as “a happy-go-lucky little soul,” full of light and joy who loved to sing, dance, and emulate her mother’s style. They expressed profound grief, stating the loss has left their hearts irreparably broken.
The family also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of support from friends and the local community during this incredibly difficult time.