Lancashire Police Re-examine Katie Beattie Death After Family Campaign for Justice
Lancashire Police are re-examining the investigation into the death of Katie Beattie, whose body was discovered in her Lancaster flat on 1 July 2024. The decision follows a near two-year campaign by her family, who utilised the Victims' Right to Review scheme after an initial police conclusion deemed her death non-suspicious and an inquest provided no definitive cause.
Ms Beattie's sister, Kellie Rhodes, stated that the family remains with 'unanswered questions'. She disclosed that Ms Beattie had expressed fears of 'predators' prior to her death, including concerns about being injected in her feet if intruders gained access to her flat. The family also highlighted the absence of blood tests in the initial investigation, which they contend was a critical oversight.
Details from the scene, as described by Ms Rhodes, included Ms Beattie being found partially naked with bruising, a suspected puncture wound between the toes of her left foot, and a bottle of washing-up liquid on the bed. The family also want police to re-examine doorbell footage showing a man entering Ms Beattie's property with her on 28 June 2024 and leaving alone on 30 June 2024.
Ms Rhodes suggested that Ms Beattie's vulnerability, including diagnoses of autism and alcohol dependency linked to mental health struggles, may have influenced the initial decision to deem the death non-suspicious. The family is now advocating for 'Katie Beth's Law', a reform to mandate full forensic examinations within 24 hours for all unexplained or potentially suspicious deaths, a petition for which has garnered over 5,000 signatures.
Lancashire Police confirmed that 'further enquiries are being conducted' following the review. Ms Beattie's loved ones, including her parents Shonna and David Beattie, described her as a 'happy-go-lucky girl' with a love for animals and a generous spirit.
