Murder probe launched as woman found dead in Luton 17 days after last sighting

Beata Szauer, 46, was found dead in her own home after going missing last month

A murder investigation has been launched after a woman was found dead in her own home – 17 days after she was last seen. Police launched the probe following the death of Beata Szauer, 46.

Beata was found dead at her home in Brook Street, Luton on Wednesday, January 7. Detectives launched an initial inquiry into the circumstances around her death.

Following a forensic post-mortem examination, they learned her death was likely to have been as a result of a stab wound. The case was then passed to the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit who reviewed the evidence – and subsequently launched a murder investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Sam Khanna, senior investigating officer for the case with Bedfordshire Police, said: “First and foremost our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Beata at this tragic time. This is a complex investigation, and we are working hard to establish the circumstances surrounding Beata’s death.

“We are currently following a number of lines of enquiry and as part of this we are now appealing to the public to come forward with any information which could help us. The last confirmed sighting of Beata was in Luton on Sunday 21 December, so we are appealing for anyone who knew Beata or who may have any information about the time from when she was last seen to when her body was discovered to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101 or www.beds.police.uk, quoting Operation Elyen. You can also pass on information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org