Calne murder: Police arrest 17-year-old boy over killing of teenage girl in Wiltshire

Body was found at house on Springfield Drive on Friday afternoon

Springfield Avenue in Wiltshire town of Calne (Google Maps)

A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a teenage girl in Calne, Wiltshire Police said.

The girl’s body was found at a residential address in the small town on Friday afternoon before the boy was arrested in nearby Chippenham, police added.

Officers were called by the ambulance service to a house on Springfield Drive shortly before 3.15pm yesterday. Despite the efforts of emergency medics, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following initial enquiries, a 17-year-old male who police said is known to the girl, was arrested later on Friday afternoon and remains in police custody.

A post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death and formally identify the girl will be held on Sunday.

Wiltshire Police said people in Calne – a town of only 17,000 people around 20 miles from Bath – were likely to see a significant police presence over the weekend as enquiries continue.

“The thoughts of everyone at Wiltshire Police are with the family of the victim at what must be a devastating time for them,” said Superintendent Conway Duncan.

“They are receiving support from specially trained officers and we will continue to do everything we can to help them come to terms with what has happened.

He added: “This investigation is still in its early stages but I would like to reassure the local community that a robust police response was launched yesterday and will continue in the days to come.

“If anyone in the local area has any concerns, please approach one of the officers on patrol or at the cordon and they will be happy to answer your questions if appropriate to do so.”

Kier Pritchard, chief constable of Wiltshire Police, added: “My thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event. It’s such a tragic and early loss of life. All family members and the wider community will be absolutely devastated.

“Thank you to all police officers, staff and wider partners for your professional response.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact us on 101 and quote log number 176 of 3 May.