Police release picture of woman whose burnt body was found in layby as murder investigation continues

41-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder released without further action

Detectives have identified a woman whose badly-burned body was found in a layby in Staffordshire as 52-year-old Jomaa Jerrare, from Wolverhampton. (Staffordshire Police)

A woman found badly burned after being set alight and left on the side of a road has been named by police.

Detectives have identified the suspected murder victim as 52-year-old Jomaa Jerrare of Heath Town, Wolverhampton.

Her body was found by officers just before 2.30am on Monday in a lay-by in Bridgnorth Road, Perton, South Staffordshire, after police received reports of suspicious activity.

A post mortem examination has taken place but the cause of Ms Jerrare’s death is under further investigation.

A 41-year-old man from Wolverhampton who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released without further action, Staffordshire Police said.

The force is again appealing for the public’s help as the investigation continues.

Detective Superintendent Tom Chisholm, of Staffordshire Police, said: “We’ve had a tremendous response from the public but, again, I must stress, this is the early stages of a major investigation and we are pursuing many lines of enquiry.

“‘We need to understand Jomaa’s movements prior to her death and want to hear from anyone who knew her or has seen her over the last few months.

“We are keen to understand where she has been frequenting and who she has been associating with.

Body was found in layby on Bridgnorth Road, which runs west from Wolverhampton (J Thomas)

“We believe that she was driven to the lay-by in Bridgnorth Road. Did you witness anything suspicious or see any vehicles in the area between 1am and 3am on Monday morning? Do you have local dash cam or CCTV footage?”

“It may be you know someone was out at that time or their pattern of behaviour changed. Please get in touch with us if you can help or have information.

“This is a shocking and dreadful incident and our team of detectives is working tirelessly to establish what has happened and bring those responsible to justice.”

Specially-trained officers are working with and supporting Ms Jerrare’s family, who have asked for their privacy to be respected.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS21H10-PO1