Inquest into Leah Croucher's death to start in Milton Keynes

The inquest into the death of Milton Keynes teenager Leah Croucher is set to open this morning.

The 19-year-old was last seen on her walk to work, on February 15th 2019, with her remains found at a house in Loxbeare Drive, Milton Keynes, more than three years later.

Ms Croucher's remains were found in October 2022, with her family releasing a statement to say it was "heart-breaking news" that they knew would come one day.

The date for the inquest into Leah's death was set earlier this year, initially listed for two days.

Milton Keynes Coroner's Court now have the inquest listed for one day only.

In a statement released by Ms Croucher's family after the date was set, they said they were "happy to have a date for Leah's inquest", and that "There is a lot of information yet to be shared to us and our legal representation."

Leah's family added "We are looking forward to seeing that".

Convicted sex offender Neil Maxwell was named by Thames Valley Police as the murder suspect. He died in April 2019, aged 49.

Thames Valley Police said Maxwell was the only person with keys to the house where remains were found near the 19-year-old's possessions in Loxbeare Drive, Furzton, Milton Keynes, while the owners were away.

He had been employed by the home owner to carry out some property maintenance at the house.

Leah's funeral took place in 2023, a few months after her remains were found, with a private service.

A cortege passed through Emerson Valley, Furzton, Shenley Brook End, Shenley Church End and Grange Farm where members of the public paid their respects.

The inquest into Leah's death is due to begin at Milton Keynes Coroner's Court at 10am this morning.

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