Mother of three found dead in freezer as husband charged with murder

27 March 2026 , 14:52

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Mother of three found dead in freezer as husband charged with murder

A mother of three was tragically found dead inside a freezer at her home earlier this month, a court heard.

An inquest into the death of Carolann Barraclough, 37, who was known as Caz, has opened at Wakefield Coroner’s Court. Caz’s death was confirmed by a Yorkshire Ambulance Service paramedic who attended her house in Horbury, Wakefield, on March 6.

Coroner Oliver Longstaff said that it appeared that Carolann had been found in a freezer at her home address. He said that the inquest hearing was not making any "finding of facts" in the case. A post mortem examination gave the cause of death as "blunt force head trauma pending further investigation."

The hearing was told that Carolann’s husband had been charged with her murder. Mr Longstaff suspended the coronial investigation.

Cards and floral tributes were laid on Ken Churchill Drive, including a message describing Carolann as a "beautiful and amazing sister" who had a lovely smile. Her family has thanked everyone for their messages, cards, and flowers, reports Yorkshire Live. 

Carolann was described as a much-loved mum, daughter, sister, cousin, and friend. 

David Barraclough, 45, of Ken Churchill Drive, Horbury, appeared at Leeds magistrates’ court earlier this month charged with Carolann’s murder.

DCI Stacey Atkinson, of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said early on during the police investigation: "We recognize this incident will cause concern locally and I can advise residents we are not seeking anyone else in connection with the matter."

Elizabeth Baker

Technology & Business Editor