Dawlish tragedy: Ukrainian refugee, 14, who died on beach named as Albina Yevko and devastated mum pays tribute

THE Ukrainian refugee who died on a beach has today been named as cops probe the “unexplained” horror.

The 14-year-old girl has been identified as Albina Yevko.

The Ukrainian refugee has today been identified as Albina YevkoThe teenager was found unconscious on a beach in Dawlish, Devon

She was tragically found unconscious on Saturday evening in Dawlish, Devon.

It is understood Albina is a Ukrainian refugee who fled Russia’s invasion with her mum Inna Yevko.

The teenager was airlifted to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where she later died.

Cops say a forensic post-mortem is due to take place this week to establish a cause of death.

Her mum has now paid tribute to her “beautiful” daughter.

Inna said: “Myself and my family are devastated to have lost our beautiful Albina.

“Nothing can ever replace her in our hearts.

“We ask that our privacy is respected at this incredibly painful time.”

The pair were staying with a family in the town, locals claim.

Albina was a pupil at Dawlish College.

Her grieving friends are understood to be receiving support from specialist officers.

One pupil described her as a “kind and caring person”.

They said yesterday: “We just got the news at the school I go to because she was a student here and we all think it’s horrible.

“She was such a kind and caring person and it is so sad to see her go.”

Mayor of Dawlish Lisa Mayne said people living in the area have been left shocked by the tragic death.

She said: “It’s absolutely devastating for people

“You can’t put it properly into words, how it is going to affect our Ukrainian community here.

“They have come here to find safety and now they have to come to terms with a terrible tragedy like this.

“It’s dreadfully sad. Her family needs time to grieve and find out what happened.

“People in Dawlish have been so welcoming. This is terrible news for us too.”

Devon and Cornwall Police launched an urgent investigation into her death.

Detective Inspector Becky Davies said: “Our investigation continues as we try to piece together Albina’s final hours.

“Officers continue to undertake door-to-door enquiries as we try to identify any witnesses or CCTV footage that capture Albina’s movements.

“Whilst this death remains unexplained, we are not currently treating this death as suspicious.

“We await the results of the forensic post mortem due to take place on Thursday, but in the meantime we ask that the family and loved ones of Albina are given space and privacy as they come to terms with their loss.

“Our thoughts are very much with those who knew Albina at this tragic time, and the close-knit Dawlish community who will no doubt be in shock over this loss.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the force on 101, quoting reference 50230052081.

Those who wish to make an anonymous report can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

SWNSCops were called to the scene on Saturday[/caption]