The mother of nine-year-old Aria Thorpe has shared the heartbreaking details of her daughter’s final hours as a 16-year-old boy stands trial over her death in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset.

The teenager, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, denies charges of murder and manslaughter. Prosecutors allege that Aria was fatally stabbed at her home on December 15 last year.

During proceedings at Bristol Crown Court, Aria’s mother, Victoria Hull, described what had seemed like an ordinary and happy day before tragedy struck.

Victoria told jurors that she picked Aria up from dance class at around 4:30 p.m. Aria had been in good spirits and told her mother she had enjoyed her day. On the way home, they stopped at Aldi to buy mini pizzas and toppings for dinner.

After arriving home, Aria sat in the living room eating pizza while watching YouTube. According to her mother, she was cheerful, energetic, and still excited after attending her dance class.

Before Victoria left for her evening shift at work, Aria asked for the last Oreo cookie. The pair then shared what would become their final conversation.

Victoria recalled that Aria said something similar to, “See you after work, mummy,” to which she replied, “See you after work, love you.”

Victoria had taken on extra shifts to save money for Christmas, unaware that it would be the last time she would see her daughter.

Prosecutors told the court that after the incident, the 16-year-old allegedly left the house and walked to a nearby railway station, where he reportedly told several young people that he had accidentally stabbed Aria while “playing around” with a knife.

Witnesses said the teenager appeared shaken, although some initially believed he was joking.

Family friend Ollie Sheppard later arrived at the house and discovered Aria injured. He immediately contacted emergency services and attempted to reach Victoria, who was at work at the time.

Victoria later learned about the tragedy after police officers informed her. She described the experience as overwhelming and said much of the moment remains a blur.

A post-mortem examination found that Aria suffered a single stab wound to the chest and died very quickly as a result of her injuries.

The teenager was arrested shortly afterward on a train. In a statement to police, he reportedly admitted grabbing a knife and stabbing Aria but said he did not understand why he had done it.

The trial is ongoing.

A Family Remembering a Joyful Child
Victoria’s testimony painted a picture of a young girl who enjoyed dancing, spending time with family, and embracing simple everyday moments.

Her account has reminded many people that behind the headlines was a child with a bright personality and a loving relationship with her family.

Aria’s death has deeply affected the local community and has renewed discussions about youth violence, knife safety, and the importance of early intervention and support services for young people.

Community members have expressed their condolences to Aria’s family while following the legal proceedings closely.

Seeking Answers Through the Legal Process
As the trial continues, investigators, legal representatives, and jurors will examine all available evidence to determine exactly what happened and whether criminal responsibility has been established.

For Aria’s family, the proceedings are part of a difficult journey toward understanding the circumstances surrounding her death.

Her mother’s testimony has ensured that Aria is remembered not only for the tragedy itself, but also for the joyful moments that defined her short life.

Those closest to her say they hope her memory will inspire greater awareness about protecting children and preventing future tragedies.

Aria Thorpe is remembered as a happy young girl who loved dancing, spending time with her family, and enjoying the simple moments of childhood. While the legal process continues, her family remains focused on honoring her memory and seeking answers about the events that led to her death.