Cameron Cheng, 18, has been charged with murder and attempted murder following the death of 17-year-old Lainie Williams at her home in Cefn Fforest, South Wales. The charges were filed today after the fatal stabbing incident on Thursday morning shortly after 7 am. Cheng also faces a charge of possession of a bladed article in a public place.
Lainie Williams was found fatally wounded in her bedroom and pronounced dead at the scene despite paramedics arriving by air ambulance. Police say she tried to fight off her attacker. Cheng, from Newbridge, had previously been in a relationship with Williams.
A second victim, 38-year-old Rhian Stephens, identified as Lainie's mother, sustained serious injuries when the intruder stabbed her before entering Lainie's bedroom. She has since been discharged from hospital.
Police Appeal
Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend of Gwent Police urged the public to consider their conduct during the investigation. «We understand that there has been a great deal of interest in this investigation. It is vital that people consider how their language, especially comments made online, could affect our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice,» she said.
Townsend added: «Even though we've reached this significant development in the investigation, our enquiries continue so it is likely that residents will continue to see officers in the area. So if anyone has any information, please speak to our officers or contact us in the usual way.» Armed police and firearms officers were among those who responded to the scene on Wheatley Place.
Community Mourns
Family and friends have paid tribute to the college student on social media. Her cousin Megan wrote: «There's not enough words, rest peacefully our brave and beautiful cousin Lainie. Very fond childhood memories I'll cherish forever. You were and still are so loved.»
Cefn Fforest Councillor Shane Williams expressed shock at the incident. «We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the events that have unfolded,» he said. «When a young girl loses her life like that, it's quite horrendous.» He noted that such violence is highly unusual in the area and acknowledged that many residents may now be frightened. The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral costs.
Cheng is scheduled to appear at Newport Magistrates' Court on Monday, November 17. Specially trained officers are providing support to Lainie's family.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
