Police say the 14-year-old Ukrainian refugee’s death was not suspicious

The death of a Ukrainian refugee in Devon was not suspicious, investigators said.

Devon and Cornwall Police have ruled out any third party involvement in the tragedy.

Albina Yevko, 14, was found unconscious on Dawlish Beach on Saturday.

She and her mother are believed to have fled Ukraine after Russia launched its bloody war last year.

Speaking today, Detective Inspector Becky Davies said the investigation is ongoing.

She said: “Following a police investigation throughout the Dawlish area, including CCTV trawls, a check of Albina’s phone and a forensic post-mortem; Investigators can confirm that there was no third party involvement and that Albina Yevko’s death is not suspicious.

“Our research shows that Albina has settled into the UK very well since moving from Ukraine and has enjoyed living by the sea and being part of a new family.

“She had made good friends in Britain, both Ukrainian and English, enjoyed school and was made very welcome by the local community.

“We have informed Albina’s next of kin of our findings and ask that their privacy be respected at such a difficult time.

“The role of the police is to continue to collect information on this matter and to provide a file to the coroner who will conduct an inquest into this death in due course.

“We would like to thank everyone who has assisted us in our investigation of this matter. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew Albina at this tragic time.’

Albina’s mother, Inna Yevko, said in a statement shared by police: “Me and my family are devastated to have lost our beautiful Albina.

“Nothing can ever replace her in our hearts. We ask that our privacy be respected at this incredibly painful time.’

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers is asked to contact 101@dc.police.uk quoting case reference 50230052081.

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