United Kingdom

Lauren Howe’s death: shock as murder inquiry opens

A COMMUNITY is in shock after a man was arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a “truly amazing” mum-of-two in Baildon.

West Yorkshire Police were told by Yorkshire Ambulance Service at 9.46am on Sunday that they were called to a safety concern in Aire Way, Baildon, and were treating an injured woman.

Book of condolences: pay your respects after the tragic death of a woman in Baildon

She was taken to hospital but was later pronounced dead. She was named locally as Lauren Howe.

Tributes have been paid to Lauren Howe from Baildon

A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in police custody.

Specialists and detectives from the Homicide and Major Investigation Team are conducting the investigation and are offering support to the woman’s family, a West Yorkshire Police spokesman said.

Forensics on Tennis Way, Baildon, on Sunday

Detective Superintendent Emma Winfield, from the Homicide and Major Investigations Team, said: “A woman has tragically lost her life and our thoughts are with her family and friends and those who knew her at this truly terrible time.

“We are carrying out extensive inquiries to understand the circumstances of what happened and would urge anyone who can assist us in this investigation to contact us.”

A police cordon was put in place in Baildon as police arrested a man on suspicion of murder

The statement added that police had received an earlier report of a related matter from a member of the public and had approached the Independent Police Conduct Office in relation to the handling of this incident.

“This is a huge tragedy for the young lady and her family,” said Cllr Martin Love (Green, Shipley ward).

“It is an absolute tragedy for a young woman to lose her life in these circumstances.

“My thoughts and prayers are with my family and friends.

“The neighbors will also be quite shocked by all the police activity in the area.”

Flowers have been left at the scene in Baildon

Dozens of tributes poured in in a book of condolence produced by the Telegraph & Argus, with Lauren’s sisters sharing heartfelt messages.

Bethany Howe said: “Oh my sweet, sweet baby sister. There are no words that will ever describe the hurt and pain we are feeling right now.

“You left such a hole in our hearts. Be free, Lauren, and be yourself. I love you and miss you more than you can imagine.

Another sister, Leiga, wrote: “I miss my sister so much. I will always love her! You were truly an amazing mother to your children and an amazing sister to all of us. You will always be in my heart forever and ever.’

Stephen Townend wrote: “Lauren, I am absolutely lost for words that you have left so early in life. You were an amazing mother and an amazing friend and you will be missed by all. You touched many hearts during your time with us and we thank you for allowing us to be a part of your life story. Fly high, angel, sleep easy. It’s not goodbye until we meet again.”

Jennifer McKelvey wrote: “Rest in eternal heaven Lauren, an absolute heartbreaker. Love always, Uncle Peter and Aunt Jenny.

Charlotte Renshaw wrote: “Wow, well, what can I say. We shared some good times together lol. You were one in a million, I just can’t believe you’re actually gone. It doesn’t look real. I can’t take me for that You were always the life and soul of the party.

“I can’t believe I’ll never see you or talk to you again. This is absolute madness. Fly high Vine until we meet again. My love goes out to your beautiful babies who you loved dearly and your family who loved you to pieces. ”

Dion Phillips wrote: “Lauren, I remember being young and innocent playing on Walden Drive. I remember you being so nice and I have good memories of you growing up. I actually miss those days we all do. My thoughts are with your family. I’m so shocked, they took you too soon. I hope your babies are taken care of. RIP beautiful.”

Chris Burke wrote: “Tear Lauren. Fly high with the angels. Come to think of it, I was only talking to you less than 12 hours before this happened. You will be sadly missed.”

Toni Allen, who started a GoFundMe page to help Lauren’s family, wrote: “Can’t believe the news yesterday.

“I still haven’t come to terms with it, I’m still in complete shock. You were too young to leave. Heartbreaking is an understatement. You were too perfect for this earth. Rest in heaven Lauren, you will never forget the memories we shared.”

To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/lauren-jade-howe

Information can be passed to the Homicide and Major Investigations Team using live chat 101 or by calling 101. Information can also be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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