A 15-year-old boy has appeared before magistrates charged with the murder of nine-year-old Aria Thorpe in Weston-super-Mare, an incident that has left the local community reeling.
Court Appearance Following Tragic Stabbing
The teenager, who cannot be named due to his age, faced a brief hearing at Bristol Magistrates' Court on Wednesday 17 December 2025. He spoke only to confirm his personal details before being remanded into youth detention accommodation. A further hearing is scheduled for Friday at Bristol Crown Court.
The charge relates to the death of Aria Thorpe on Monday evening. Avon and Somerset Police stated that the young girl died from a single stab wound. Emergency services were called to Lime Close in the seaside town at 6.09pm, but Aria was pronounced dead at the scene.
Community in Shock as Police Offer Support
Superintendent Jen Appleford of Avon and Somerset Police said the community was in a state of shock following the tragic knife crime. She emphasised the unimaginable trauma for Aria's family, who are being supported by specialist officers, and reiterated their request for privacy.
"It is impossible to adequately describe how traumatic the past 36 hours have been for them and we'd like to reiterate in the strongest possible terms their request for privacy," Supt Appleford stated.
Police confirmed they are working closely with local schools and other agencies to ensure appropriate support is available for residents and children affected by the tragedy. A police cordon remained in place at the scene on Lime Close as forensic officers continued their investigation, with flowers and tributes left nearby.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The incident has cast a pall over the Somerset town, highlighting concerns about violent crime involving young people. The swift charge and court appearance indicate the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case.
As the legal process begins, the focus for many in Weston-super-Mare remains on supporting Aria's grieving family and a community struggling to comprehend the loss of a young life. The work of police and partner agencies to provide counselling and reassurance will be crucial in the coming days and weeks.
