As police investigate the “unexplained” horror, a UKRAINIAN refugee who passed away on a beach over the weekend has been identified.
Albina Yevko, who is 14 years old, has been named.
Tragically, she was discovered unconscious on Saturday night in Dawlish, Devon.
Albina is believed to be a refugee from Ukraine who escaped the Russian invasion with her mother, Inna Yevko.
After being airlifted to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, the adolescent passed away there.
According to police, a forensic post-mortem is scheduled to be performed this week to determine the cause of death.
Her mum has now paid tribute to her “beautiful” daughter.
Inna said: “Myself and my family are devastated to have lost our beautiful Albina.
“Nothing can ever replace her in our hearts.
“We ask that our privacy is respected at this incredibly painful time.”
Locals claim that the couple was staying with a local family.
Albina attended Dawlish College as a student.
It’s believed that specialised officers are providing support to her grieving friends.
She was referred to as “kind and caring” by one of her students.
We just learned about it at the school I attend because she was a student there, and we all think it’s terrible, they said yesterday.
They said yesterday: “We just got the news at the school I go to because she was a student here and we all think it’s horrible.
“She was such a kind and caring person and it is so sad to see her go.”
Mayor of Dawlish Lisa Mayne said people living in the area have been left shocked by the tragic death.
She said: “It’s absolutely devastating for people
“You can’t put it properly into words, how it is going to affect our Ukrainian community here.
“They have come here to find safety and now they have to come to terms with a terrible tragedy like this.
“It’s dreadfully sad. Her family needs time to grieve and find out what happened.
“People in Dawlish have been so welcoming. This is terrible news for us too.”
Devon and Cornwall Police launched an urgent investigation into her death.
Detective Inspector Becky Davies said: “Our investigation continues as we try to piece together Albina’s final hours.
“Officers continue to undertake door-to-door enquiries as we try to identify any witnesses or CCTV footage that capture Albina’s movements.
“Whilst this death remains unexplained, we are not currently treating this death as suspicious.
“We await the results of the forensic post mortem due to take place on Thursday, but in the meantime we ask that the family and loved ones of Albina are given space and privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
“Our thoughts are very much with those who knew Albina at this tragic time, and the close-knit Dawlish community who will no doubt be in shock over this loss.”
