A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a nine-year-old girl.
Police were called by paramedics to a property in Lime Close, in the Mead Vale area of Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, shortly after 6pm on Monday.
The girl was pronounced dead at the scene, Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement.
A teenage boy was arrested on suspicion of murder in the nearby village of Worle at around 6.19pm.
Superintendent Jen Appleford said: “We knhow the whole of Weston-super-Mare will be distraught and shocked to learn of this utterly dreadful news.
“The girl’s family were informed last night of what had happened. It is impossible for us to adequately put into words the pain and anguish they are feeling right now.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to them, and we’ll ensure they receive support from a specially-trained officer.
“A criminal investigation is already well underway to establish the facts of this case. The formal identification process has not yet been completed, and a post-mortem examination will also be conducted.”
Avon and Somerset Police said it had increased the number of officers in the area following the incident (file photo)
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GETTYSupt Appleford urged people “not to speculate” on the circumstances of the girl’s death.
A police cordon remains in place in Lime Close today as officers continue to work at the scene.
“We have no doubt the community will come together as one in response to this tragedy,” Supt Appleford added.
“Enquiries are being carried out at the property as part of our investigation and we’d ask for people’s patience and understanding while that work is undertaken.”
North Somerset Council leader Mike Bell said he was “shocked and saddened” by the incident.
“My thoughts are with all those affected, particularly the family and friends of the girl who has lost her life,” the Lib Dem councillor wrote in a post to social media.
“An arrest has been made, police investigations are live and the community will, I am sure, pull together to support each other at this difficult time.”
Avon and Somerset Police said it had increased the number of officers in the area following the incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the force.