Headington community reacts to death of woman in park

Thames Valley Police is investigating an unexplained death after Shotover Country Park in Headington was cordoned off yesterday morning. 

The force confirmed shortly after 6pm that a woman was found dead at 6.45am. 

READ MORE: Oxfordshire beautician died from drug-related death

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Sections of the park have been closed off to the public while two separate police taped cordons have been put in place as officers stood guard.

The cordon is expected to remain in place for some time, police have said after forensics were called to the scene yesterday.

Forensics heading into the woods. (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: Shotover Country Park closed due to police incident

Councillor Jabu Nala-Hartley, who represents Barton and Sandhills, said: "You worry about what’s gone on and who has been affected as even when you are driving and you hear a police car you wonder what has happened."

Forensics heading to the scene on Thursday morning. (Image: NQ)

Speaking before the death was confirmed, Ms Nala-Hartley added: “It is very worrying because at the end of the day, Oxford is a city that is known for its education and university but there is another side to Oxford."

Alongside three police cars and one unmarked car, there was also a fire engine as well as the forensics van at the site yesterday.

The police cars at the scene within the park. (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: Police head into woods as forensics arrive at closed-off park

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Wojciech Spyt said: “Firstly, my condolences go to the woman’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

“We are investigating the circumstances of her death, which is currently being treated as unexplained.

“The park itself is closed to the public while we manage the scene, which is likely to remain in place for some time.

“I’d ask the public to please avoid the area while our enquiries are ongoing.

“There is no threat to the wider public but please speak to a uniformed officer if you are worried or concerned.

“I would ask anyone who was in the park last night or early this morning to please contact us."

There was an outpouring of tributes for the woman last night at the time of going to press. 

One comment from Julie Francis said: "RIP. May you be in a better place and at peace."

One of the police officers at the cordon. (Image: Newsquest)

Those with information on the incident are urged to call 101 or by making a report on the force's website, quoting the reference number 43240130811.

Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.

Thames Valley Police has been contacted by the Oxford Mail for further details. 

A spokesman for the force refused to confirm or deny whether the incident is being treated as suspicious.