Lily Sullivan, 18, ‘was strangled to death before being dumped in Pembroke pond’ as man, 31, appears in court for murder
TEEN Lily Sullivan was allegedly strangled to death before her body was dumped in a beauty spot pond, a court heart today as a man appeared charged with her murder.
The 18-year-old had been partying with friends in Pembroke, south-west Wales, before she was found dead in Mill Pond close to Pembroke Castle shortly after 4am on Friday.
Lewis Haines, 31, was arrested and charged over her death.
The dad spoke only to confirm his name and address during a brief hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court today as he appeared accused of Lily's murder.
Prosecutor Michael Cray said Lily had been seen on CCTV in Paddles nightclub and later walking through the town but was later found dead.
He said she and Haines had not been known to each other before the night of the alleged murder.
Mr Cray said Lily had been strangled.
Oil refinery worker Haines was remanded in custody and ordered to appear at Swansea Crown Court on Thursday.
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A large cordon was set up around the ponds following Lily's death in the early hours of last Friday morning.
In tribute, her parents said: "Lily was a kind and caring daughter who will be deeply missed by everyone.
"The family are very thankful to all of Lily’s friends for their support.”
Dyfed-Powys Police said Lily had been out with friends in the town from around 7.30pm on Thursday in the hours before her death.
Officers released a photograph of Lily taken hours before she died in the hope that witnesses would recognise her clothing.
They said Lily was wearing a white cropped top, blue jeans with ripped knees, white belt and black patent boots. She had a spider tattoo visible on her chest, and had black hair, which was bleached at the front.
A statement from the force read: “Lily’s family continue to be supported by specialist officers and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly hard time.
“The investigation team are grateful for the support of the community whilst enquiries were conducted.”
Pembroke Mill Ponds, where Lily's body was found, is near Pembroke Castle and is a beauty spot popular with visitors.
