Police name Ukrainian refugee girl, 14, who died after being found on Devon beach

A Ukrainian girl who was found unresponsive on a Devon beach has been named as Albina Yevko.

The 14-year-old refugee was reported missing on Saturday and was later discovered on Dawlish Beach.

Searches took place with support from the police helicopter and coastguard and Albina was airlifted to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital where she later died.

Her mother, Inna Yevko, paid tribute to her daughter saying: “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.”

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.”

Yesterday, police confirmed the Ukrainian Embassy and the Home Office had been informed.