Detectives investigating the unexplained death of a woman found in a city centre doorway have made a significant breakthrough in their case.
A Tragic Discovery in the Early Hours
Staffordshire Police were called to Foundry Street in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, at 4.15am on Sunday, 1 September 2024. Officers discovered the body of a woman, believed to be in her 50s, in a doorway. It was suspected she may have been there since the previous evening.
Emergency services attempted CPR at the scene, but the woman was pronounced dead a short time later. The force immediately began the process of locating her next of kin, who were to be supported by specially-trained officers.
Investigation Progress and Public Appeal
From the outset, police stated they were keeping an open mind and treating the death as unexplained. They later confirmed the circumstances were not considered suspicious.
As part of their efforts to piece together the woman's final movements, detectives released a CCTV image to the public in an appeal for information. This strategy has now yielded a crucial lead.
Breakthrough Following CCTV Appeal
A spokesman for Staffordshire Police confirmed the development, stating: "We have identified the man we wanted to speak to following the appeal."
This identification marks a key step forward in the investigation, which has been ongoing since the tragic incident in September. The police continue to work on establishing a full picture of the events leading up to the woman's death.
The case underscores the vital role community information can play in assisting police investigations, even when a death is not deemed to be suspicious.
