Police Release Facial Reconstruction of Unidentified Woman Found in River

To aid in identifying a woman whose body was discovered in a river eight months prior, a reconstructed image of her face has been made public. Greater Manchester Police announced the release of a facial reconstruction, developed by experts using forensic data, after the woman was recovered from the River Mersey close to Chorlton Water Park in Manchester on March 21. Detective Inspector Louise Edwards stated that the police force is committed to “reunite her with her family and find the people that will be missing her”. Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University produced the facial reconstruction, following an anthropologist’s assessment of her approximate age for the police. This development follows a previous police appeal issued in March, which included photographs of the woman’s attire. At the time of discovery, she was dressed in a lime-green Primark crop-top, New Look jeans, and dark green anti-slip socks. The force indicated that extensive forensic, DNA, and investigative efforts have been conducted over the last eight months. The woman’s description includes a European background, a height of approximately 5ft 1in, a slim physique, and dark brown hair. Authorities estimate her age to be between 26 and 40, though they acknowledge she could potentially be older or younger. She was found with an elastic band and a hair bobble on her wrist, and it is estimated she had been submerged in the water for one to two months prior to her discovery. Investigators suggest she might have entered the water in a nearby area or region, considering that both the River Tame and River Goyt converge into the River Mersey. The cause of her death remains unexplained, and additional analysis of her remains is pending completion. DI Edwards commented that she could be “someone’s mother, auntie, sister, or cousin,” and further stated that “somebody out there will know who she is”. She implored anyone possessing information to come forward, emphasizing that even the “smallest detail” might assist in determining her identity. For further engagement, listeners can access BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites and provides information regarding its policy on external linking.