The death of a woman found in a popular Oxfordshire beauty spot has been ruled as a suicide, an inquest has heard.
Carolyn Achia, 28, was found by a member of the public at Shotover Country Park in Old Road in Headington on Thursday, March 21 this year.
Police and emergency services closed off the area for several hours to the public while an investigation was carried out.
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Forensic officers could be seen heading into the wooded area. At the time, police advised the public that the death was being treated as ‘unexplained’ but ‘not suspicious’.
A South Central Ambulance Service staff member verified her death at about 7.10am. It is believed that Miss Achia was found at about 6.45am
At Oxford Coroner’s Court on Thursday (September 26), a full inquest was held into Miss Achia’s death.
It was heard that she was a research scientist who lived in Benson Road, Headington. She was born in Kenya.
A post-mortem examination was carried out and the medical cause of death has been provided as ‘hanging’.
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Her body was identified to police using photographic comparison.
Coroner Nicholas Graham has ruled that the cause of her death is one of ‘suicide’. No further details were provided on the Record of Inquest into the reasons behind Miss Achia taking her own life.
After the park was reopened in March and the police cordon was removed, floral tributes were left at the opening of the path into the wooded area.
The Oxford Mail also opened a book of condolences for Miss Achia for people to pay tribute to.
Gill Sillence wrote: “Thinking of the family at this very sad time. Condolences to you all.”
Victoria R said: “I hope you are at peace and where you need to be. Sending your loved ones courage at this very sad and difficult time.”
Joanna Johnson wrote: “Sending love to friends and family.”
Further tributes were left for Miss Achia on social media.
Debbie Moss wrote: “I’m so sad to read this. She must of been in a dreadful place - my thoughts and prayers are with her and her family RIP sweetheart.”
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Julie Koretz added: “Thoughts with family and friends. Such a sad loss of a young life.”
A funeral for Miss Achia was held on April 5 at The People’s Church in Banbury, organised by Humphris Funerals.
Her friends and family were raising money in her memory for Mind, a mental health charity. A total of £380 was raised in Miss Achia’s memory with virtual candles still being lit in her memory.
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