Inquest into death of Leah Croucher due to start in Milton Keynes
The 19-year-old's remains were found in October at an address in Furzton
Last updated 25th Jan 2023
An inquest into the death of Leah Croucher is due to start on Wednesday, three months on from when her remains were found at a property in Milton Keynes.
A number of items belonging to Leah were also located at the address.
A massive three-and-a-half year search for Ms Croucher, who was 19 when she went missing, has focused on a house less than half a mile from where she was last seen.
They began searching the house after a tip-off from a member of the public on Monday 10th October, and launched a murder inquiry when they found a rucksack and other personal belongings of Ms Croucher's.
The prime suspect was named by police as Neil Maxwell, who killed himself in April 2019.
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.
Maxwell had previous convictions for sexual offences against women and was wanted in connection with a sexual assault in Newport Pagnell in November 2018, the force said.
Detective Chief Superintendent Ian Hunter said in a statement: "I cannot even begin to imagine what it is like for Leah's parents and family, for three years and eight months not knowing what has happened to their daughter and loved one.
"All of the investigation team who are working on this case are dedicated to finding the truth for Leah's family."
The inquest is set to open at 11am.