The girl was reported missing at around 11.20pm yesterday. Her body was later found near a cricket ground in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire.
Police said her death was currently being treated as ‘unexplained’.
A force spokesperson said: “An investigation has been launched after the body of an 11-year-old girl was found in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire.
“The girl was reported missing at around 11.20pm yesterday evening (Sunday 4 October) and was later found deceased in the park near the cricket ground.
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“Her family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.”
One local resident said: :It’s frightening. It’s all taped off by the cricket nets, which I think is where she was found. We don’t know who she is or whether she’s from the village.”
Another villager said: “It’s a really quiet village and the last place you would expect something like this to happen. It’s tragic.”
Police said they would be stepping up patrols in the area to reassure members of the public.
Chief Inspector Daniel Pilkington, of West Mercia Police, said: “We know the death of a young girl will be deeply upsetting for the local community, and our thoughts remain with her family and friends at this time.
“Her death is currently being treated as unexplained, and we are carrying out enquiries to fully understand the circumstances and provide her family with the answers they deserve.
“We would also ask people not to speculate about the circumstances surrounding her death. This is an incredibly difficult time for her family, and I would urge everyone to be mindful of the impact that speculation could have on them.
“People may notice an increased police presence in Elmley Castle while these enquiries continue. I want to reassure residents that this is part of our work to establish exactly what has happened, and officers will also be available to speak to anyone in the community who has concerns.”