Heartbreaking tributes have poured in for a young woman who was tragically found dead hours after being reported missing.
Thea Newton, 29, was last seen at around 1.30pm on Friday afternoon (June 16) at her home in Warrington. Her car was later found parked near to the River Mersey.
Cheshire Police confirmed on Friday afternoon that they had found a body in their search, which is believed to be Thea.
Join our WhatsApp Top Stories and Breaking News group by clicking this link
Since the news of her death broke hundreds of tributes have been paid to Thea who was taken "too soon," the ECHO reports. Her friend Alex Standring posted on social media with the caption "absolutely devastated".
One person said: "So many young lives being lost how can you ever start to make sense of all this. Heartbreaking news my thoughts are with her family and friends."
Another person commented: "So sad she was my good friend and I can't believe it I'm still shocked. Thank you for being my friend and I'll miss you."
Thea worked at Absolute Fitness in Clitheroe and her friend Alex told the ECHO: "I have known Thea for a long time and I always saw her in the gym. She was amazing with my brother who has moderate special needs and would keep an eye on him.
"Thea was a wonderful person and I am thinking of her close friends and family. It was such a shock to all of us."
Her car was found parked near Sunflower Drive and officers, along with a rescue team searched the area. Police also searched the Trans Pennine Trail and the surrounding areas in Warrington.
The news was also shared on the ECHO's Facebook page. Abbie Walker said: "Heartbreaking another young life gone too soon."
One person commented: "So sad, such a beautiful young lady my thoughts are with her family and friends."
Another person said: "Absolutely heartbreaking hope Thea finds peace in heaven... my condolences to all her broken-hearted family and friends, especially her parents."
Police said there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death and a file will now be prepared for the coroner.
A statement from Cheshire Police on Friday said: "Search teams looking for missing woman Thea Newton, 29, in Warrington have sadly found a body. She was last seen wearing a white T-shirt with a multi-coloured pattern on it.
"It is believed to be Thea and her next of kin have been informed. There are no suspicious circumstances and a file will be prepared for the coroner."
Read more of today's top stories here
READ MORE: