Tragic Deaths of Two Young Girls Rock Liverpool School
The family of six-year-old Bethany-Rose Alice Riley have paid a heartfelt tribute after she tragically died following a suspected infectious outbreak at Millstead Primary School in Liverpool.
Heartbreak in Everton Community
Bethany-Rose, from Everton, Liverpool, was sent home from Millstead Primary on June 26 and passed away later that day. Another pupil, believed to be just five and in the same class, also died after being sent home. The school caters to children with special educational needs.
Family Mourns “Special” Child
Bethany’s grandmother, Susan Paton, spoke with raw grief: “She was so special to everyone. She wasn’t the size of a normal six-year-old, she couldn’t do anything for herself. Two post-mortems confirmed it’s not natural causes — something triggered this and took her from us.”
She added, “She means the world to me. I’ve lost two grandchildren and a son before — this is absolutely heartbreaking. Nobody’s coping because it was so sudden.”
Bethany’s mother, Rebecca Melling, shared a moving Facebook tribute: “My beautiful little sass queen. My life shattered into a million pieces. I had the best six years full of love. I hope you are with the angels playing, laughing. Sleep tight, save a space for me.”
School and Community in Shock
Millstead Primary is devastated by the deaths. Headteacher Michelle Beard said: “We send our sincerest condolences to both families. These children filled their classes with joy and will forever be in our hearts. We are supporting families, staff, and pupils as we process this terrible loss.”
Health Authorities Investigate, Rule Out Giardia
The exact cause of death remains unknown. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said the deaths are “unlikely” to be caused by giardia, which causes a mild stomach illness and spreads easily, but is rarely serious.
Emma Savage, consultant in health protection for Cheshire and Merseyside, stated: “Our thoughts are with the families and school community. Investigations continue. We’ve given advice to the school and parents and implemented public health measures to prevent further cases.”
