A MAN has appeared in court charged with stabbing a 17-year-old girl to death and knifing her mum in a horror attack at the family home.
Lainie Williams was discovered dead at the property in Cefn Fforest, South Wales, on Thursday morning.
Her mum Rhian Stephens, 38, was left with serious injuries but has now been discharged from hospital.
Cameron Cheng, 18, has been charged with murder and attempted murder.
The British national, who is also accused of possession of a bladed article in a public place appeared at Newport Magistrates’ Court today.
He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during a brief hearing.
Cheng was remanded into custody to next appear at Cardiff Crown Court tomorrow.
Gwent Police previously confirmed he and Lainie are believed to be known to each other.
The suspect allegedly burst into the family home at around 7.15am after Rhian’s boyfriend had left for work.
Lainie’s great-grandmother Florence Jones, 78, told how she fought for her life after she was attacked in her bedroom.
Her eight-year-old brother hid under his bed after hearing Lainie’s screams.
Florence said: “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.”
Armed police swooped on the family’s three-bedroom home and the air ambulance was scrambled.
Tragically, Lainie was declared dead at the scene as her mum Rhian was rushed to hospital.
Tributes have flooded in for the schoolgirl, whose devastated family described her as “so loved”.
Her cousin wrote on social media: “There’s not enough words, rest peacefully our brave and beautiful cousin Lainie. Very fond childhood memories I’ll cherish forever.”
Her friends also told of their heartbreak, with one writing: “No words. Rest in peace beautiful girl, I will cherish our memories as kids forever.”
Another said: “It was a pleasure to know you beautiful. Rest in Paradise.’”
The family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to go towards funeral costs.
Her cousin Shania wrote: “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.”
