🔴 TEEN CHARGED WITH MURDER OF 17 YEAR OLD GIRL
A 17-year-old girl was fatally stabbed in her bedroom as her mother fought off a knife-wielding intruder, with an 18-year-old now charged over the violent dawn attack. Police have charged an 18-year-old man with the murder of 17-year-old Lainie Williams after a knife attack at her family home in Cefn Fforest, Caerphilly, in which her mother was also seriously injured.
Officers were called to Wheatley Place at about 7.15am on Thursday to reports of two people suffering severe wounds. Lainie was found critically injured in a bedroom and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother, 38-year-old Rhian Stephens, was taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital and has since been discharged after sustaining injuries while confronting the attacker.
The suspect, Cameron Cheng, of Newbridge, has been charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place. Gwent Police confirmed he is a British national and remains in custody ahead of his first appearance at Newport Magistrates’ Court on Monday, where the case is expected to be sent to the Crown Court.
Family accounts provided to reporters indicate the incident unfolded rapidly inside the home, with Lainie attempting to fight off the intruder while her younger brother hid after hearing screams. Detectives have not commented on any connection between the defendant and the victims and are continuing to establish how entry was gained to the property.
Firearms officers and an air ambulance were deployed due to the initial report of multiple injuries and the presence of a weapon. Forensic teams have since carried out detailed examinations of the semi-detached property, with further analysis forming part of the prosecution file now being prepared.
Gwent Police Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend has urged the public not to speculate online, warning that commentary about evidence or the defendant risks prejudicing the case now that charges have been brought. Officers continue to appeal for witnesses and for any sightings or information from the Wheatley Place area between 6.45am and 7.30am on Thursday.
Cheng will appear before magistrates on Monday for a procedural hearing before the case is committed to the Crown Court, where future listings and the timetable for evidence and plea will be set.
