Man charged with rape and murder after girl's death

Peter Stewart/BBC Flowers left at the entrance to a flat.Peter Stewart/BBC
Floral tributes have been left at the scene in Chertsey

A man has been charged with murder following the discovery of the body of a two-year-old girl at an address in Chertsey.

Officers were called to an address in Pyrcroft Road about 17:40 BST on Thursday, following reports of a concern for safety.

Kevin Kerjean, 31, has also been charged with the rape and sexual assault of a child under 13 and is due to appear at Guildford Crown Court on Monday.

Surrey Police had previously said the girl was three years old.

An investigation into the death remains ongoing and the force says it is not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Kerjean was described by police as a French national who was born in the Central African Republic.

Det Ch Supt Jon Groenen said: "This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the child's family, as well as all those who knew her.

"Our teams are working hard to build a picture of what happened, and a significant police presence will remain in Pyrcroft Road over the coming days," he added.

On Thursday, several bouquets of flowers were left at the entrance to Syward Place, an apartment complex located on the corner of Pyrcroft Road and Bell Bridge Road.

"We appreciate that the incident itself, as well as the significant police presence, will be concerning for residents," said Groenen.

"We would like to thank them for their cooperation as we conduct our investigation."

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.