Man Bailed in Lucy McHugh Murder Probe
Police have bailed a 24-year-old man arrested over the shocking murder of 13-year-old Lucy McHugh in Southampton. Stephen Nicholson, from Southampton, was held on suspicion of murder and sexual activity with a child but has now been released on strict bail conditions.
Suspect Bailed But Still Held on Other Charges
Nicholson has been ordered to stay away from Southampton and has been bailed to an address in South Wales. However, he remains in police custody on unrelated charges. Authorities confirmed no further arrests have been made in connection with Lucy’s death.
Police Plead for Public Help as Investigation Continues
Detectives continue to appeal for information as they probe Lucy’s final hours. Her body was discovered in woodland near the Sports Centre at 7:45am on Thursday, 26 July. She was last seen leaving her home on Mansel Road East at 9:30am the day before and never returned.
Detective Superintendent Paul Barton said: “This investigation very much continues and we really need the help of the community to understand Lucy’s activity in the 24 hours before her body was found.”
“We know that this is causing a great deal of concern locally, please be assured we are doing all we possibly can to bring whoever is responsible for Lucy’s death to justice.”
“Speculation, particularly on social media, is not helpful and leads to further issues we need to manage. This detracts us from the murder investigation.”
“We will update the community with as much information as we can without compromising the investigation, we really appreciate your support in this.”
What Lucy Was Wearing
When Lucy left home, she wore a distinctive black jacket with white sleeves. It featured the logo of the band Falling in Reverse on the front and the text RADKE 01 in red on the back.
If you have any information, contact police on 101 quoting reference number 44180282545.
