Woman found dead days after first failed search

A woman reported missing was only found dead at home by police four days after an initial search failed to find her there, a coroner found.

Concerns were raised about Katherine Wright, known as Sarah, and police forced entry into the property in Pound Way, Oxford, on 16 December 2023.

The 60-year-old's body was found there during a second search on 20 December and police concluded the initial visit was "inadequate", area coroner for Oxfordshire Nicholas Graham said.

Thames Valley Police said the force would respond to Mr Graham's concerns "in full after thoroughly reviewing its findings".

Tests found Ms Wright had "significant alcohol levels" in her blood but had suffered no traumatic injuries and that there were no natural causes for her death, the inquest heard earlier in December.

Mr Graham found her death was "likely caused by sudden unexpected death in the context of alcohol misuse".

He told police there was currently an absence of "clear operational guidance on what constitutes an adequate search" for police officers.

The officer who carried out the first search on the Pound Way property said they "felt unsafe due to the cluttered environment" but did not escalate their concern.

In a prevention of future deaths report sent to Thames Valley Police, Mr Graham said the force could look to implement guidance on how and when officers should raise such issues or request additional resources for searches.

A force spokesperson said: "Our deepest sympathies are with Sarah Wright's family and loved ones.

"We note the coroner's report and will respond in full after thoroughly reviewing its findings.

"As an organisation, we are committed to the principle of continuous learning and improvement.

"Where opportunities to strengthen our approach are identified, we will act on them to ensure we deliver the highest standards of policing."

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