'Screams' heard by neighbour before woman who 'brought smiles to faces' dies

869     0
Charlene Mills died on Saturday (Image: MEN MEDIA)
Charlene Mills died on Saturday (Image: MEN MEDIA)

Neighbours have recalled hearing "screams" before a woman who was described as being "beautiful inside and out" was found dead.

Floral tributes filled up the back entrance of a home in Gorton, Manchester, following the death of 43-year-old Charlene Mills. Police have said a 52-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning.

Officers had initially been called to a concern for the welfare of a woman at a property at around 11.20am on Saturday, and Charlene was later pronounced dead. Throughout Sunday, tearful family members gathered as heartfelt floral tributes were laid down on the pavement.

The property was cordoned off on Sunday as detectives and forensics were seen collecting evidence. One resident told of hearing "screaming" on Saturday night. “At around 11:15 we heard something. It was a man and a woman screaming," they reportedly said. "It was crazy, there was police all over the place. There was people outside crying which I think are the family of the woman. It was really sad, heavy-hearted.”

'Screams' heard by neighbour before woman who 'brought smiles to faces' dies eiqtiduiqzqinvFlowers have been left by the property (MEN MEDIA)

According to another resident, who lives in the property which is believed to be a house share, occupants were asked to evacuate the home by police amid investigations. And another neighbour, who lives just doors away, told Manchester Evening News: “I saw about a dozen police there yesterday. I’m really shocked and I’m sorry to hear about the woman’s death. Gorton isn’t the most favourable of places to live, but you never expect someone to die on your doorstep, it’s really sad.”

Mum wades 60 miles through river after tracking 'stolen' sausage dog with AirTagMum wades 60 miles through river after tracking 'stolen' sausage dog with AirTag

In a statement released through Greater Manchester Police, Charlene's family described her as being 'beautiful inside and out' who had a 'personality that would bring a smile to the faces of all that knew her'.

They added: “Charlene, or Char as we all knew her, was the most perfect daughter and big sister to Amber. She loved being a mum and idolised her son Rydell and dog, Boxer. She was strong-willed, kind, and cheeky, overcoming so many obstacles in her life. The world just won’t be as fun without her, and our treasured memories of Char are the only little pieces of comfort we have.

'Screams' heard by neighbour before woman who 'brought smiles to faces' diesA neighbour said they heard "screams" (MEN MEDIA)

"We are heartbroken and still coming to terms with this devastating news. We are extremely grateful for the messages of support and to those who have paid their respects by laying flowers. We now ask for privacy and time to grieve."

GMP said that due to 'previous contact', and 'in line with normal procedure', the incident has been referred to the force's professional standards branch. Detective Superintendent Helen Critchley, from the force's Major Incident Team, said: “Firstly, I want to send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the woman who sadly died today. We have specialist officers in place to ensure they are being updated and supported as we enter the early stages of the investigation.

“We are currently piecing together the exact details of the incident and a scene remains in place as officers carry out their work. I understand that incidents of this nature can cause distress in the community, but I want to reassure local residents that we believe that this was an isolated incident. We are asking anyone who may have heard or seen anything from around the time of the incident to please get in touch. No matter how small or insignificant you may think it is, any information could be of great benefit to the investigation.”

Ramazani Mwamba

Print page

Comments:

comments powered by Disqus