Louise Smith: Murder investigation launched after body of missing teenager found in woodland

Police are appealing for any information about teenager’s movements before her disappearance

Handout CCTV image issued by Hampshire Constabulary of Louise Smith entering a Tesco Metro on Greywell Road shortly before 7.30pm on Thursday May 7

(PA)

A murder investigation has been launched after a body found in woodland was confirmed to be that of missing 16-year-old Louise Smith, Hampshire Police have said.

Detective Chief Superintendent Scott Mackechnie said: “This is now a murder investigation and our focus is to identify who is responsible,” appealing for information on her movements before she went missing.

Police confirmed on Saturday evening that a body found on Thursday was the teenager.

Mandy Ferdinando, who had known Smith since she was a young girl, laid flowers at the entrance to Havant Thicket, where the her body was discovered.

She previously told the PA news agency: “She was a lovely girl with a heart of gold.”

Smith was seen entering Tesco Metro on Greywell Road shortly before 7.30pm on Thursday 7 May, and it was reported to police that she was seen in Somborne Drive at around midday on the 8 May VE Day bank holiday. She was reported missing around 6.30pm the same day.

DCS Mackenchnie added that Smith’s disappearance and murder had left the community “shocked and upset”.

“This is a tragedy, and our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Louise at this incredibly difficult time.

“We know that news of her murder will leave the community shocked and upset, but we are turning to you for your help, because information you have could be key in this investigation.

“Two weeks have passed since Louise was first reported missing. I am asking residents in Leigh Park to cast their minds back to Louise’s disappearance a fortnight ago and provide any information to us that will help trace her movements from where she was last seen to the site at which her body was discovered.”

A man and a woman were arrested in connection with Smith’s disappearance on 15 May, but released on bail.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting 44200163113, or you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111