Woman found in River Mersey last year finally identified
It is currently believed she was last seen around January 2024.
A woman who was discovered in the River Mersey last year has been identified following an extensive investigation by officers in Greater Manchester Police’s Major Incident Team (MIT).
She can now be named as Laura Stanley, 38, who was originally from Derbyshire and living in Stockport.
The police say her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Laura was sadly discovered in the river adjacent to Chorlton Water Park on 21 March last year, which led to an exhaustive and determined investigation by officers within MIT to identify her.
This included detailed checks of both national and international databases, and collaboration with specialist forensic service providers to create an anthropological profile. Which culminated in the creation of a facial reconstruction image.
Following several media appeals, which the force say generated dozens of calls, a relative of Laura contacted officers, who subsequently were able to confirm a DNA match through a familial link.
GMP say that while Laura has now been identified, further investigations will now take place to understand her last movements, the events that led to her death, and discovery in the river.
They're urging anyone who knew Laura and thinks they may be able to assist is asked to contact them.
It is currently believed she was last seen around January 2024.
The police say following the discovery Professional Standards Directorate are reviewing a previous missing report relating to Laura in the time before the discovery of her body.
This review will determine prior contact relating to Laura and whether the appropriate measures were enacted.
Paying tribute to her, Laura’s family said: “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.”
They have asked for their privacy as they continue to grieve their loss.
Detective Inspector Louise Edwards, from GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “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.
“I would like to pass my condolences on to all of those who knew Laura, especially her family, who we are continuing to support at this awfully difficult time.
“We will now continue to investigate Laura’s last movements and how she ultimately came to be discovered in the River Mersey just over a year ago. These are answers her family deserve and we will be keeping them updated as we carry out this work.
“I would like to thank Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University, who created the facial reconstruction which helped a relative identify her.
“I would also like to thank members of the public who have shared our appeals and provided us with valuable information throughout the investigation. The information has been of great benefit and I am very grateful for this.”
If you have any information, can contact police by calling 101, or by using GMP's Live Chat Service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log number 1191 of 21 March 2024. Alternatively contact the Major Incident Team Syndicate 3 directly on 0161 856 9479.
You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. Information can also be provided online using the dedicated Major Incident Public Portal.