Burnley '˜murder' victim - brother pays tribute

Detectives are continuing their investigation following the death of mother-of-one Nicola Haworth.

A murder inquiry was launched after a man was seen acting suspiciously on Holmby street at around 9 am yesterday (July 22nd). He was searched and arrested on suspicion of possession of a knife and taken to custody.

At around 9-30 am officers attended an address on Wilton Street to check on the safety of a woman. Inside the address they found the body of a 33-year-old woman, who police have now identified as Nicola Haworth.

She was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene. A post-mortem examination established the cause of death as asphyxiation.

Nicola’s daughter, a nine month old baby girl, was also found at the address unharmed and taken to a place of safety.

The 34-year old man from Burnley was subsequently rearrested on suspicion of murder. He has been detained under the Mental Health Act and remains in a secure unit.

The death has shocked the local community. Paying tribute, Nicola’s brother, Robert Haworth, said: “My sister was a beautiful woman who was a caring, loving, remarkable person. She was a fantastic mummy, sister and aunty. Life will never be the same for me or my beautiful niece. We will always remember you Nicola Joanne. You are now back with Mum and Dad and always know I loved you. Rob.”

The investigation is ongoing and detectives are appealing to anyone with any information to come forward.

DI Andy Cribbin, of the Force Major Investigation Team said: “We are continuing our investigation into the tragic death of Nicola Haworth and my thoughts remain with her family and friends at this time.

“If anyone has any information that could assist with our ongoing inquiry I would urge them to contact us as soon as possible.‎”

Anyone with information can contact Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log 368 of 22nd July.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.