Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have confirmed that a woman discovered in the River Mersey last year has been identified as Laura Stanley, 38, originally from Derbyshire and living in Stockport.
Laura’s body was found on 21 March 2024, in the river adjacent to Chorlton Water Park. An extensive investigation followed, led by officers from GMP’s Major Incident Team (MIT), in a determined effort to identify her.
Investigation Efforts and Breakthrough
The investigation spanned over a year and involved detailed checks of both national and international databases. Specialists from forensic service providers assisted in creating an anthropological profile, which ultimately led to the creation of a facial reconstruction image.
Media appeals generated dozens of calls, and one of these led to a significant breakthrough. A relative of Laura contacted the police after seeing the reconstruction, which allowed officers to confirm her identity through a familial DNA match.
Detective Inspector Louise Edwards from GMP’s Major Incident Team stated:
“For the last twelve months, the investigation team have worked meticulously on this case, demonstrating commitment and dedication to giving Laura her identity back and reuniting her with her family and loved ones.
Family Tribute
Laura’s family expressed their grief and paid tribute to her, saying:
“Laura was a kind and gentle person with a great sense of fun and adventure. She was generous, thoughtful, caring, and always keen to volunteer within the community. Laura was a proud and loving mum, and she will be greatly missed by her girls and all of her friends and family who loved her dearly.”
The family has requested privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
Further Investigations
While Laura has now been identified, police are continuing to investigate her last known movements and the circumstances that led to her death. Laura was believed to have been last seen around January 2024.
The investigation also includes a review by the Professional Standards Directorate to assess whether appropriate measures were taken in a previous missing person report concerning Laura.
Appeal for Information
Anyone who knew Laura or may have information about her last movements is asked to contact the police by calling 101 or using the Live Chat Service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log number 1191 of 21 March 2024.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, or online through the Major Incident Public Portal.
The police have expressed gratitude to the public and specialist teams, including Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University, for their valuable contributions to the investigation.
As the investigation continues, GMP remains committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding Laura’s tragic death.
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