A body found a year ago in a UK beauty spot has been identified as a missing mother. The body was discovered in March last year in the River Mersey at Chorlton, Manchester.
Now, after a major police investigation and help from university experts who created a facial reconstruction, she has been identified as Laura Stanley, 38, originally from Derbyshire, who was living in Stockport, reports Manchester Evening News.
Laura was a mother to two girls, and her family have described her as "a kind and gentle person" with "a sense of fun and adventure".
Her body was found next to Chorlton Water Park at 11.10am on March 21 last year. The discovery led to an extensive investigation from Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team who created a facial reconstruction image using national and international databases.
When she was found, Laura did not have any identifiable items in her pockets or visible jewellery. However, images were later released of a lime green Primark-branded crop-top, believed to be the same as the one she was wearing. She was also wearing New Look JENNA size 8 jeans and non-slip style socks.
A relative of Laura eventually contacted police after several media appeals. Investigating officers were then able to confirm a DNA match through a familial link.
Although Laura has now been identified, further investigation work will take place to understand the events that led to her death. Greater Manchester Police said Laura was last seen around January 2024 and are urging anyone with relevant information on her disappearance to get in touch.
They are also keen to hear from anyone who knew Laura as they try and work out her last movements. The force's Professional Standards Directorate are reviewing a previous missing report relating to her in the time before her body was found.
Laura's family said in a tribute: “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 dear."
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.”
The force added: "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.”
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