'Murdered' woman, 25, found near fire station named by police
17 November 2019, 22:12
A woman whose body was found near a fire station in Worcester has been locally named as 25-year-old Sara Hopkins.
Sara, who was a barmaid in the local area of Upton upon Severn, was discovered at around 8am on Saturday morning.
Her cause of death is not yet known.
A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody after detectives were granted more time to question him.
The night before her body was discovered, Sara posted on social media that she was looking forward to going to the pub with friends after a "sh***y week".
Her best friend Holly Barrett has since posted an emotional tribute to Sara on social media.
She wrote: "Today it's really sunk in that you're not here anymore and I can't get over the fact that you're gone.
"You were my best friend during high school and carried on making me laugh and smile into our twenties. You were always so positive, kind and a great laugh to be around.
"You had my back when not many others did and I'll always be grateful for the time that we spent together."
Police are now appealing for any any witnesses who may have information about what happened.
Detective Inspector Jim Bayliss said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of the woman who has died at this incredibly difficult time. We have specially trained officers who are offering support.
“Our enquiries have continued throughout today as we work to establish the circumstances around the woman’s death and I would ask anyone who was near the fire station in Causeway Lane between around 11pm on Friday night and the early hours of Saturday to get in contact with us as they may have information that can help with our enquiries."
Anyone with information can ring West Mercia Police on 101 quoting reference 150s 161119 or alternatively information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
