Young woman's body found burnt in South Staffordshire

Police are appealing for help in identifying her.

Author: Grace MarnerPublished 11th Aug 2021
Last updated 11th Aug 2021

Detectives in Staffordshire are trying to identify a woman - whose body was found in a lay-by in the county - describing the case as "shocking and dreadful".

Officers think she was driven to Bridgnorth Road in Perton near Wolverhampton, in the early hours of Monday - and set alight.

Officers found the deceased woman following reports of suspicious activity at a layby on Bridgnorth Road near Perton just before 3am on Monday (9th August).

They say it was apparent that she had been set alight at the location and had significant burn marks on her body.

Detectives are conducting multiple enquiries but say it's vital they identify the woman as soon as possible. They're working to do this through forensic testing but at this stage can only say that she is of slight build and believed to be aged between her late teens and 30.

They're appealing for anyone who may know who she is, or anyone who was in the area between 1am and 3am on Monday to get in contact with them.

Detective Superintendent Tom Chisholm, of Staffordshire Police, said: “We believe the young woman was driven to the site. Did you witness anything or have local dashcam or CCTV footage? Are you aware of any girls or women who are missing or unusual activity in the area Sunday night into the early hours of Monday morning.

“This was a shocking and dreadful incident and we are determined, with your help and support, to bring those responsible to justice. We will provide further updates as soon as we are able to do so.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS21H10-PO1

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