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CBBC star Mya-Lecia Naylor took her own life, coroner rules

She was just 16 years old

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CBBC star Mya-Lecia Naylor hanged herself at her family home, a coroner ruled today.

The 16-year-old actress died on April 7, 2018.

South London assistant coroner Toby Watkin ruled at an inquest that her death was by misadventure.

At the time of her death, the teenager’s heartbroken father, Martin Naylor, told 48-year-old neighbour Nana Boateng ‘we’ve lost our baby’.

Mr. Boateng revealed to MailOnline: “He told me that Mya had collapsed. He was about to break down when he added: ‘We’ve lost our baby’.

“I feel so sorry for them. She was such a young, happy and beautiful girl with everything to live for.

“My wife is so upset she can’t stop talking about it.”

Mya-Lecia was just 16 years old (Credit: Twitter)

Read more: Emily Atack leads tributes to Mya-Lecia

Her representatives A&J Management broke the tragic news, saying: “It is with the deepest sorrow we have to announce that on Sunday 7th April Mya-Lecia Naylor, very sadly, died.

“Mya-Lecia was hugely talented and a big part of A&J, we will miss her greatly.

“Our love and thoughts are with all her family and friends at this difficult time.”

Mya-Lecia starred in BBC comedy Ab Fab as Jane in 2004.

She also appeared starred in CBBC show Millie Inbetween as Fran, as well the channel’s Almost Never, which aired this year.

Mya-Lecia in Almost Never cast shot (Credit: BBC)

I’m A Celebrity‘s Emily Atack, who starred alongside Mya-Lecia in the drama, has offered her condolences.

“So shocked and sad to hear about lovely Mya-Lecia Naylor,” she said.

“She was a beautiful and talented girl. A complete joy to be around on the set of Almost Never.

“Sending all my love to her family & friends. Rest in peace beautiful girl.”

The BBC announced to its young viewers: “We are so sorry to have to tell you that Mya-Lecia, who you will know from Millie Inbetween and Almost Never has, very sadly, died.

“Mya-Lecia was a much loved part of the BBC Children’s family, and a hugely talented actress, singer and dancer.

“We will miss her enormously and we are sure that you will want to join us in sending all our love to her family and friends.

“We know this news is very upsetting, and it may help to share how you are feeling with friends or a trusted adult.

“If you are struggling and there is no one you feel you can talk to about it, you can call Childline on 0800 11 11.”

If you or someone you know is feeling depressed or suicidal, call Samaritans free on 116 123, or email [email protected]

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Kaggie Hyland
Editor-in-Chief