Devastated family of Natalie Dean heartbroken by ‘horrific murder’ after she was found dead in river – as man, 46, held
THE devastated family of the victim of a “horrific” alleged murder have shared their heartbreak after she was found in a river.
Natalie Dean, 34, was found in a stretch of the River Severn running through Lanidloes, Wales, on May 28, 40 miles from her home.
Cops have arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of murder in connection with her death.
Paying tribute, Natalie’s family said: “We are distraught by the loss of our daughter and sister Natalie Dean, and she will be missed by us all.
“We would like to thank everyone for their support at this horrific time. It has meant a lot to the whole family.
“We would now like time to grieve and would ask to be given privacy in which to do so.
“As a family, we encourage members of the public to support the police and contact if you have any information of relevance.”
A spokesperson for Mid Wales Police confirmed the arrest and that the man remained in custody awaiting questioning.
The force are also looking for witnesses who might have seen a man and a woman in the local area on either day of the weekend.
The woman is described as 5ft 4ins, white, small, and with long dreadlocks past her waist.
She was known to be wearing a grey top, dark trousers, and white trainers.
The man is described as 6ft, white, stocky and also with dreadlocks, as well as a coloured bandana.
He was wearing a short-sleeve, high-vis jacket, a T-shirt, shorts and light-coloured trainers and was carrying a single-strapped black bag.
The man also had a small, dark-coloured dog with him.
Investigators are also seeking another male who gave the man and dog a lift between Welshpool and Shrewsbury on May 28.
Anyone with information regarding the pair is encouraged to contact cops on 101 or on the dedicated website, quoting reference DP-20230528-120.
Those who wish to make an anonymous report can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.