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Suspect to Be Charged With Murder in Death of 12-Year-Old Mercedez Layne
By Aurax Radio | June 11, 2026 | 2 min read
A 27-year-old man is expected to be formally charged with murder in the death of 12-year-old schoolgirl Mercedez Layne after police received legal advice from prosecutors. The case marks a key development in an investigation that has gripped communities across south Trinidad since the child’s disappearance and death.
Police said they were advised on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to charge Richard Renales of Dickie Trace, Palo Seco Beach Road, with murder. Investigators have been working the case since Mercedez Layne, a student at St. Francis Erin R.C. School, was reported missing, triggering a large-scale search effort involving law enforcement and community volunteers. Authorities said the legal guidance clears the way for the murder charge to proceed.
The suspect is expected to appear before a High Court Master on Thursday, June 11, 2026, where the charge is likely to be formally presented. The development comes as the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death, which has caused widespread public mourning and concern in communities across south Trinidad. Police have not released further details on the evidence but say the case remains active.
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