A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 25-year-old woman was found dead.

Police and paramedics attended an address on Fourth Avenue, York at 1pm on Monday after concerns were raised for the welfare of the woman.

"Officers gained entry to the property where they sadly found her deceased," said a spokesman for North Yorkshire Police.

"The suspect, a 35 year-old local man, was arrested at 5pm the same day after officers located him in his vehicle on Melrosegate.

"The victim’s family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

"We are not yet in a position to release the woman’s identity and urge people to respect her family’s privacy.

"A police scene guard will remain in place at the property whilst enquiries are completed."

The Northern Echo:

The scene off Fourth Avenue in the Tang Hall area of York. Picture: MIKE LAYCOCK

Terry Smith, of Classic Cutz in Fourth Avenue, said the woman who died lived in a flat near his salon. 

He said: "She was the nicest person you could ever meet. She worked at a nursery in York.

"Her brother and his friend and one of her friends came down looking for her after they had tried contacting her after she failed to show up for work. 

"Two police officers gained access to the property. After a short period of time police came down and informed her brother and friend that she had just been found dead. I was totally shocked and devastated by it. I tried to console her brother. 

"The flat is now a crime scene and the police forensic team have also been looking for evidence in rubbish bins. Detectives have just spent two hours at the One Stop Shop in Fourth Avenue, checking CCTV footage for evidence.

"I am devastated and really upset by what has happened today and my thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends at this sad time." 

  • Witnesses or anyone with information that could assist the investigation are urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and speak to the Force Control Room.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111.

Please quote reference number 12180118649 when providing details about this incident.