The tight-knit community of Cefn Fforest in South Wales has been left reeling after a violent incident on the morning of November 13, 2025, resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl and serious injuries to her mother. According to Gwent Police and multiple media outlets including BBC and Sky News, 18-year-old Cameron Cheng, a British national from Newbridge, Caerphilly, has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a bladed article in a public place. He is remanded in custody and is set to appear before Newport Magistrates' Court on Monday, November 17, 2025.
Police were called to Wheatley Place, Cefn Fforest, at approximately 7:15am following reports that two people had been seriously injured. Armed officers responded swiftly to the scene, where they discovered Lainie Williams, 17, had suffered fatal injuries. Despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother, Rhian Stephens, 38, was also found with serious injuries but has since been discharged from hospital, as confirmed by Gwent Police and reported by The Sun.
The suspect, Cameron Cheng, is believed to have known Lainie Williams prior to the incident. According to The Sun, he allegedly entered the family home shortly after Rhian’s boyfriend had left for work. The attack reportedly unfolded in the presence of other family members, including Lainie’s eight-year-old brother, who hid under his bed after hearing her screams. Lainie’s great-grandmother, Florence Jones, 78, recounted the harrowing experience, stating, “I’m in total shock, she was a lovely bubbly girl. She lived with me for the last few years, I can’t believe what’s happened. Things like this don’t happen in our family.”
The response to the incident was immediate and intense. Armed police descended on the three-bedroom home, and an air ambulance was dispatched, but tragically, nothing could be done to save Lainie. The community has since been grappling with the aftermath, as tributes have poured in for the teenager. Her devastated family described her as “so loved,” while friends and relatives took to social media to share their grief. One cousin wrote, “There’s not enough words, rest peacefully our brave and beautiful cousin Lainie. Very fond childhood memories I’ll cherish forever.” Another friend posted, “No words. Rest in peace beautiful girl, I will cherish our memories as kids forever.”
In the days following the tragedy, the family set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs. Lainie’s cousin Shania wrote in the appeal, “We are heartbroken to share the sad passing of our beautiful Lainie Williams, whose life was tragically taken far too soon. As her family navigates this unimaginable loss, we are hoping to come together as a community to help ease the financial burden of giving Lainie the beautiful send-off she deserves. Any donation—big or small—will make a meaningful difference and will be deeply appreciated by her loved ones. Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers during this devastating time.”
Gwent Police Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend addressed the media and public interest in the case, urging caution in public commentary. She stated, “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.”
The police have appealed for anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing. Residents in the area can expect to see an increased police presence as officers continue their inquiries. The force has also highlighted the importance of responsible language both in the community and online, as the legal process unfolds.
The suspect, Cameron Cheng, faces three serious charges: murder, attempted murder, and possession of a bladed article in a public place. According to BBC and Sky News, he remains in custody and will make his first court appearance on Monday, November 17, 2025. The formal identification of the victim as Lainie Williams has brought a personal dimension to the case that has resonated deeply with local residents and across Wales.
Details about the moments leading up to the attack remain under investigation, but it is clear from family accounts that the event unfolded rapidly and with devastating consequences. The fact that Lainie and her alleged attacker were known to each other has added another layer of complexity to the tragedy, raising questions about the circumstances and possible motives, though police have not released further details as of yet.
The impact on the family has been profound. Lainie’s great-grandmother, Florence Jones, who was present during the attack, described her granddaughter as full of life and deeply loved by all who knew her. Friends and relatives have echoed these sentiments, painting a portrait of a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.
Community members have responded with an outpouring of support, from laying flowers outside the family home to sharing memories and condolences online. The GoFundMe campaign, spearheaded by Lainie’s cousin, reflects the desire of friends, family, and even strangers to offer tangible help during a time of immense grief. The campaign highlights both the emotional and practical challenges faced by families in the wake of such tragedies.
Authorities, meanwhile, continue to urge anyone with information to step forward, whether by calling 101, sending a direct message on social media, or using the online form provided by Gwent Police. For those who wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers is also accepting information related to the case. The police have reiterated their commitment to a thorough investigation, with Assistant Chief Constable Townsend emphasizing that “our inquiries continue.”
As the legal process moves forward, the people of Cefn Fforest are left to come to terms with the loss of a young life and the trauma inflicted on a family and community. The story of Lainie Williams is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the far-reaching consequences of violence, leaving many searching for answers and hoping for justice in the weeks and months ahead.
