Man, 22, charged with the murder of nine-year-old Lillia Valutyte

31 July 2022, 19:02 | Updated: 31 July 2022, 23:27

A 22-year-old man has been charged with the murder of nine-year-old Lillia Valutyte in Boston, Lincolnshire.

Lithuanian national Deividas Skebas, who was arrested on Saturday after a CCTV appeal, was charged with Lillia's murder.

She died following an incident in Fountain Lane, Boston, at around 6.20pm on Thursday, where she is believed to have suffered a stab wound.

Following a combination of intelligence and information supplied by the public, armed officers made an arrest in the Central Park area of Boston at around 2.45pm on Saturday.

Lillia's parents are being supported by specially trained officers, Lincolnshire Police said.

A statement read: "Their welfare continues to be a priority for us."

Skebas, of Thorold Street, Boston, is due to appear at Lincoln Magistrates' Court on Monday.

Read more: Schoolgirl, 9, was 'stabbed to death while playing with sister' in Lincolnshire street

Read more: First photos emerge of Lilia Valutyte, 9, who was 'stabbed to death' in Lincolnshire

Chief Superintendent Martyn Parker said: "This is a heartbreaking case that has affected many people in Boston, and further afield.

"Our thoughts continue to be with Lillia's family at this exceptionally difficult time.

"The response to such a devastating incident has involved committing significant resources to the investigation, and engaging with people in Boston who are understandably shocked by Lillia's death.

"Our officers have been in the town, speaking to the public and listening to their concerns. We'll continue to maintain a significant presence over the coming days.

"Finally, I'd like to extend my thanks once again to the public and the media, who have provided help in a challenging and fast-moving case. Your support is appreciated by our officers and staff."

Skebas was detained after four CCTV images were released of a man detectives said they wished to trace.

Police have previously said that they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the death.

The CCTV showed a man in the Wormgate and Fountain Lane area of Boston at 6.15pm on Thursday - five minutes before Lillia was found dead.

Lincolnshire Police also said that two people who were arrested earlier this week have now been released with no further action.

Lillia had reportedly been playing with her younger sister on the street just yards from an office where their mother was working at the time.

The girls had a hula-hoop, and a toy pram was left at the scene, according to local people.