Cefn Fforest homicide accused pictured for first time after woman knifed to dying at house
Cameron Cheng has appeared in court charged with the murder of Lainie Williams and the attempted murder of her mum, Rhian Stephens at their home in Cefn Fforest, South Wales
An 18-year-old charged with the murder of a 17-year-old schoolgirl has been pictured for the first time. Cameron Cheng, from Newbridge appeared in court today (November 17) accused of murdering Lainie Williams and attempting to murder her mum, Rhian Stephens, aged 38.
Both victims were reportedly stabbed during an attack at their home in Cefn Fforest in South Wales on the morning of November 13. Cheng was brought before Newport Magistrate’s Court this morning, where he was also charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place.
The defendant spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during a brief hearing. Magistrates sent the case to Cardiff Crown Court and Cheng, who is a British national, is due to appear again before a judge on Tuesday.
Christine Farrington, presiding justice, said: “As you heard this case is so serious it must be sent automatically to the crown court. The next hearing will be at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday. You will be remanded into custody until that time.”
Meanwhile, scores of relatives and friends have changed their social media profiles to honour Lainie, with many displaying a pink heart emblazoned with ‘Lainie Williams, forever 17’.
Cefn Fforest councillor, Cllr Shane Williams, said: “We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the events that have unfolded, and I understand that the police are not looking for anyone else in connection.
“But as councillors, we’d like to do our best to reassure everyone, and our thoughts are with the family at this time.
“We are all hoping for a full recovery for the woman who was hospitalised. Something like this is highly unusual in this area, and I can understand if many residents are now frightened. When a young girl loses her life like that, it’s quite horrendous.”
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