Mum-to-be found murdered (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Mum-to-be found murdered

An international manhunt is under way after a young pregnant woman was murdered in her home.

The body of Hayley Jane Richards, a 23-year-old restaurant worker from Trowbridge, was found on Saturday after she failed to turn up for work.

Police revealed today that they are liaising with Interpol and colleagues in Portugal to trace Hayley's ex-boyfriend Hugo Quintas.

Police believe Quintas flew out of the UK on Saturday through an undisclosed regional airport and is now in Portugal.

Family members revealed that the killing came just over a week after an alleged assault on Hayley.

Police also disclosed that Hayley was three months' pregnant although officers were unable to confirm whether or not Quintas was the father.

Fears for Hayley's safety arose after she failed to turn up for work on Saturday morning and could not be contacted by her family.

Police were called at around 3.20pm and went to her address in Carders Corner in Trowbridge where they found her body.

Police said that although it was clear that a physical attack had taken place they were remaining tight-lipped about the exact nature of her injuries.

The results of a post-mortem examination by a Home Office pathologist are still being awaited.

Superintendent Peter Russ, of Wiltshire Police, said: "Although we are keeping an open mind and investigating all relevant lines of inquiry, we are very keen to trace and interview Hugo Quintas and are currently liaising with Interpol, as well as Portuguese law enforcement agencies."

Her brother Paul Richards revealed that the family had expected Quintas to be arrested over the assault but that it had been delayed because of the need to obtain a Portuguese interpreter.

A statement issued on behalf of Hayley's family by Mr Richards said: "Hayley was a beautiful young woman, she hurt no-one and was loved by all. She was always there when required, no matter what was asked of her.

"The family are in a deep, deep state of shock, as you can imagine there are lots of questions that need to be asked and answered.

"Those that knew Hayley would have known that she was with child.

"I am led to believe that just over a week ago Hayley was attacked in her own home by her ex-boyfriend and we were informed that an arrest was imminent but that an interpreter would have to be present.

"A week later we find ourselves devastated with the loss of Hayley."

Wiltshire Constabulary confirmed they were aware of the assault allegations.

Supt Russ said that officers had been investigating the complaint although no arrest had been made.

However, because of the police involvement Wiltshire's Deputy Chief Constable Stephen Long took the decision to refer the matter to the police watchdog the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Police said that Hayley was last seen by her family just before midnight on Friday. Trained family liaison officers are currently working with her relatives.