18-year-old man appears in court charged with murder and attempted murder

An 18-year-old man has been charged with murder and attempted murder following the death of teenager Lainie Williams in Cefn Fforest last week.

Lainie, 17, died at her home in Wheatley Place on Thursday November 13. A 38-year-old woman was also taken to hospital with “serious injuries” but has since been discharged.

Cameron Cheng, from Newbridge, appeared at Newport Magistrates’ Court on Monday November 17.

As well as murder and attempted murder, Cheng – who Gwent Police confirmed is a British national – was also charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Cheng spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address. He has been remanded into custody until the next hearing, which will be held at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday.

Gwent Police said it was called to the property at around 7.15am on November 13, following reports that two people were seriously injured. Firearms officers also attended as a precaution.

The force confirmed the family were receiving support from specially trained officers.

Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend said: “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.

“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.”

Anyone with information can contact Gwent Police on 101, through direct message on social media, or through Gwent Police’s website, quoting log reference 2500361653.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by calling 0800 555 111.