French national charged in UK over murder of two-year-old child in Surrey

Monday 29 June 2026 - 17:00

A French national has been formally charged in the United Kingdom in connection with the death of a two-year-old girl in a case that has prompted a major police investigation in Surrey.

The suspect, a 31-year-old man identified by authorities as Kevin Kerjean, is facing charges including murder as well as additional serious offences related to alleged harm involving a young child. Police confirmed that the accused appeared in court and was placed in pre-trial detention pending further proceedings.

Emergency services were called to a residential address in Chertsey following concerns raised about the safety of a child inside the property. Upon arrival, officers discovered the child deceased inside the home, prompting an immediate homicide investigation led by specialist detectives.

According to investigators, early findings suggest that the suspect was known to the victim and that the incident occurred within a domestic or family-linked setting. Authorities have stressed that, at this stage, no other individuals are being sought in connection with the case.

The accused, who was legally residing in the United Kingdom with permission extending until 2031, was brought before magistrates in Guildford before being remanded in custody. He is expected to appear before the Crown Court for further hearings.

Police continue to gather forensic evidence and witness statements as the investigation progresses. Officials have emphasized the sensitivity of the case, given the age of the victim and the domestic context in which the alleged events took place.

The case has drawn significant public attention in the UK and France, raising broader concerns about child safeguarding and the detection of domestic risk factors in vulnerable households. Authorities have urged the public to allow the judicial process to proceed without speculation as the legal proceedings move forward.