Police have issued an urgent appeal to help identify a man following the fatal stabbing of nine-year-old Lillia Valutyte. Lincolnshire Police released four CCTV images of the man they want to speak with in connection with the youngster's death.
They have warned anyone who sees him not to approach him but to call 999 immediately. Two people who were arrested earlier this week have now been released with no further action.
Chief Superintendent Martyn Parker said: “Our officers have been working round the clock on this investigation, and the public’s help may prove crucial.” He added: “These are very clear images of a man we want to speak to, so I’d urge anyone with information to get in touch with us. If you see him, do not approach him but immediately call 999.
“This is a particularly tragic case and I’d like to reassure the public that we have a huge amount of resources dedicated to the investigation. We continue to provide support to the family of Lillia, as they grieve following this unimaginable loss.”
Lillia was found on Fountain Lane in Boston at about 6.20pm on Thursday. According to the Mirror Lilia's mother was reportedly watching her girls play through the window of the café while she worked. She was the first on the scene after the stabbing, rushing to her daughter's side.
A resident from the area told the Telegraph: “The little girl was playing in the street with her younger sister when it happened. They had some toys out.
“I’m sure her mum wouldn’t have been far away as she always checked on them. She was a very quiet girl, and I just can’t understand it. I didn’t see what happened, but we were told they (police) were looking for footage of a man running away.”
Jurate Matulioniene, a family friend and chairwoman of the Boston Lithuanian Community, described Lilia as “a beautiful angel” who loved dancing.
She told The Times: “Lillia was a beautiful angel, she was quite quiet and loved dancing. The family used to come to all of our community events and they would always stay late to help clear up.
“I have spoken to the mum and asked for her account details because we want to do a fundraiser but she would not accept it.” Anyone with information should call 101 quoting Incident 419 of July 28.
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