Family Speaks Out After 8-Year-Old’s Alleged Murder

The family of Rhys Anthony Cameron, the eight-year-old boy whose death led to a murder charge against a woman in northeast England, say they are “utterly devastated” as they try to comprehend a loss that has shaken their community.

“Rhys was a lovely little son, brother, nephew, grandson and friend to many who loved and knew him in the community,” the family said in a statement shared with The Northern Echo. “He had a cheery, funny and beautiful personality and carried a huge smile wherever he went that will forever be remembered.

“His love for listening to music, playing with his friends and toothbrushes brought joy to us all. To say we as a family are devastated is an understatement… We take comfort from the words of support we have received, and the love shown to Rhys as we continue to take time to come to terms with our tragic loss.”

According to The Northern Echo, Hartlepool Mail and Yahoo News UK, Rhys was found unresponsive at a home on Marsh House Avenue in Billingham, a town in northeast England, earlier in September. Cleveland Police in northeast England said ambulance staff called officers to the home, and specialist officers are supporting the family.

Court papers allege the offense occurred between Sept. 13 and Sept. 15, the outlets reported. A 40-year-old woman, Louise Cameron, of Marsh House Avenue, has been charged with murder in connection with Rhys’s death. She has been remanded in custody. Authorities have not clarified what, if any, relationship she had to the child.

At Teesside Crown Court, Judge Francis Laird set a plea hearing for Nov. 6 and listed a trial date for Feb. 23; Cameron appeared via video link from Low Newton Prison, BBC News reported.

Rhys’s school, Ash Trees Academy, also paid tribute. “As a school community, we are devastated by the loss,” headteacher Lauren Banks said, per Yahoo News UK. “He was a delight to all of us, his smile lit up the room and he was a true pleasure to have as part of our school family.”

An inquest into the circumstances of Rhys’s death opened on Sept. 23 at Teesside Coroner’s Court, The Northern Echo, Hartlepool Mail and Yahoo News UK reported. Area coroner Paul Appleton confirmed brief details and noted the death remains “unexplained” pending further police work, before adjourning the inquest until the criminal proceedings are complete.