Woman discovered in the River Mersey last year identified following extensive investigation
A woman found in the River Mersey in March 2023 has been identified as Laura Stanley, 38, from Derbyshire, following an extensive investigation by GMP’s Major Incident Team. The investigation involved forensic analysis, facial reconstruction, and public appeals, leading to a DNA match through a relative. Laura’s family has been informed and is receiving support. Further investigations will determine her last movements and the circumstances of her death. Her family described her as kind, generous, and a loving mother. Police continue to seek information from the public.
River Mersey Body Identified as Derbyshire Mother After Year-Long Investigation
Laura Stanley, a 38-year-old mother originally from Derbyshire, has been identified as the woman found in the River Mersey near Chorlton Water Park on March 21 last year, following an extensive investigation by Greater Manchester Police’s Major Incident Team.
The breakthrough came after officers created a facial reconstruction image with help from Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University, which prompted a relative to come forward. DNA testing confirmed the match through a familial link, ending months of painstaking work that included checks of national and international databases and collaboration with forensic specialists.
Stanley had been living in Stockport before her death. Her family, who described her as “a kind and gentle person with a great sense of fun and adventure,” said in a statement: “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.”
Police believe Stanley was last seen around January 2024, though the circumstances leading to her death remain under investigation. The force’s Professional Standards Directorate is also reviewing a previous missing person report filed before her body was discovered. Detective Inspector Louise Edwards confirmed the investigation will continue to establish Stanley’s final movements, stating: “These are answers her family deserve.”
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