Murdered student nurse was adored, says family

Lauren Evans had a strong bond with her family's dog Poppy, her parents have said

The family of a student nurse found dead alongside the body of a paramedic have paid tribute to a "special daughter and sister".

Lauren Evans, 22, from Bridgend, and 24-year-old Daniel Duffield, from Cannock, were found dead at home on Alpine Drive in Hednesford, on 25 June.

An inquest hearing opened on Wednesday into Ms Evan's death, but a cause has not yet been revealed.

Staffordshire Police said her death is being treated as murder and no other parties are being sought in their investigation.

'Smile brightened dark days'

"Lauren was truly beautiful inside and out and will forever be in our memories," her family said in a statement released by police.

"She was adored by her parents, younger sister, grandparents, family and friends because she was a gorgeous, soft natured, sweet girl whose smile would brighten even the darkest of days."

Her family said she had a "thoughtful, caring and loving nature".

"[That endeared her] to so many during her short life and she had so much more love to give and smiles to share with family and friends in the future," they added.

Two forces, Staffordshire Police and South Wales Police, have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) following recent contact they have had with the pair.

Daniel Duffield's body was found in a house with that of Lauren Evans

Neither force has revealed the nature of the contact.

Det Insp Louise Booker, of the Staffordshire force, said: “Following the launch of our investigation and enquiries conducted by our major investigations team, we are treating Lauren’s death as a murder.

"We want to reassure the community that we are not seeking any other party in connection with Lauren’s death and are continuing to build a file for HM Coroner.

“I can’t begin to imagine the pain that the families are feeling after this tragic incident and our thoughts remain with the families of those affected.”