Youth due in court over Alesha MacPhail death

A 16-year-old youth is due to appear in court after the death of schoolgirl Alesha MacPhail on the Isle of Bute.

The suspect was arrested two days after the body of Alesha, six, was discovered in woodland near her grandparents’ home.

He will face charges at Greenock Sheriff Court on Friday.

A murder probe was launched following the results of a post-mortem examination.

Officers have not specified how the pupil at Chapelside Primary School in Airdrie, North Lanarkshire, died.

Detective Superintendent Stuart Houston said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to personally thank Alesha’s family who have shown incredible bravery through what has been an unimaginable ordeal during these past few days.

“I’d also like to thank local people for all their support and assistance during this major investigation on the island. The response to our appeals was significant both from those living here and the wider community of Scotland.

“The family has also received considerable support from Alesha’s home town of Airdrie, which was reflected in the memorial service held at her school.”

Officers confirmed they had made an arrest in connection with Alesha’s death on Wednesday evening and the 16-year-old was charged the following day.

Mr Houston said: “Officers and staff from across Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority have been involved in what has been a difficult and challenging investigation during which they have worked tirelessly to bring us to where we are today.

“As I have said previously, incidents such as this are extremely rare and while the police investigation will continue, I hope that today’s announcement brings some reassurance to everyone in the local community.

“Argyll and Bute and North Lanarkshire councils have services available for those who may have been affected.”