The tragic death of a nine-year-old girl named Aria has sent shockwaves through the community of Weston-super-Mare. Aria, affectionately described as “sassy” and a “lovely little girl,” has been pictured publicly for the first time since her sudden and devastating stabbing.
On the evening of Monday, December 15, police responded to an incident on Lime Close just after 6 p.m. Avon and Somerset Police quickly arrested a teenage boy in nearby Worle on suspicion of murder. The community remains deeply affected by the event.
Aria had just celebrated her ninth birthday two weeks earlier with a lively K-pop themed party surrounded by friends. Described by loved ones as joyful and spirited, she attended an after-school dance class on the day of her death. Only the night before, she excitedly talked about her Christmas wishes with her best friend.
READ MORE: Glastonbury Regenerative Farming Centre Cancelled Following Life Factory Project Failures
READ MORE: Somerset MP and Residents Raise Concerns Over Evri Delivery Failures
Her uncle, Jordan Hull, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook: “Please can everyone give myself and my family time to grieve the sudden loss of my niece Aria. This was a sudden tragedy and my family are going through extreme pain right now.”
Tamara Taylor, the mother of Aria’s best friend, expressed her heartbreak. “Aria was a lovely little girl, sassy for her age. She loved dressing up and just doing what little girls do. My daughter and Aria were inseparable — always playing together, visiting each other’s homes. We had to send my daughter to her grandmother’s for safety, but I’m dreading how to tell her that her best friend has been taken from us.”
A close friend of Aria’s mother, Victoria, also shared a message on social media: “Tor is mourning the loss of her daughter. The salon will be closed until further notice. We are all heartbroken and ask everyone to respect the family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Heartbreaking tributes have been left near the scene, with one note reading, “Aria, thank you for playing with me. Lots of love to you, your sister, and mum.”
Superintendent Jen Appleford of Avon and Somerset Police spoke about the community’s grief: “The whole of Weston-super-Mare is distraught and shocked by this dreadful news. It is impossible to put into words the pain the family are feeling. Our deepest condolences go to them, and we are ensuring they receive support from specially trained officers.”
She added that the investigation is ongoing: “We are carrying out inquiries at the property and ask for patience and understanding. We will have an increased police presence in the coming days to provide reassurance and support. There is no known increased risk to public safety at this time.”
The community continues to come together in support of Aria’s family as they mourn the loss of this bright and beloved child.