A mother was forced to make a frantic 999 call while her teenage daughter was being fatally stabbed inside their family home, an inquest has heard.
A Tragic Morning in Cefn Fforest
Lainie Williams, aged 17, suffered multiple knife injuries during the horrific incident at Wheatley Place, Cefn Fforest, Gwent. The attack occurred on the morning of November 13.
Emergency services rushed to the address near Blackwood shortly after 7am. Upon arrival, they discovered the teenager lying in a pool of blood. Paramedics pronounced her life extinct at the scene.
Mother Injured and Suspect Charged
Lainie's mother, 38-year-old Rhian Stephens, was also injured during the assault. She required hospital treatment and was later released.
Cameron Cheng, an 18-year-old British national from Newbridge in Caerphilly County, has been charged in connection with the attack. He faces charges of Lainie's murder, the attempted murder of Rhian Stephens, and possession of a bladed article.
Area Coroner for Gwent, Rose Farmer, told the hearing: "Rhian Stephens, Lainie's mother, called 999 reporting that her daughter was being stabbed."
Inquest Adjourned as Criminal Case Proceeds
After the attack, Lainie's body was taken to University Hospital Wales in Cardiff for a post-mortem examination. The cause of death was established as multiple sharp force injuries.
The inquest was formally opened and immediately adjourned until August 24 next year to allow the criminal prosecution to proceed. No details of the police investigation were discussed in court, and no family members were present at the brief hearing.
Cheng is set to face a three-week trial at Cardiff Crown Court next May.
Mayor George Etheridge described the killing as horrific, stating: "Our sympathies, thoughts, and prayers go out to the families affected by this tragedy." He also thanked police for their swift response.
