A devastating sequence of events unfolded in Coventry when a woman was found dead in her car hours after police officers had assured her family she was "fine," leaving relatives with unanswered questions and a community in shock.
The Fateful Discovery
It began when concerned passersby spotted 23-year-old Macey-lea Hignett sitting motionless in her vehicle on Spon End during the early hours of March 17. Alarmed by her unresponsive state, they immediately contacted emergency services, fearing for her wellbeing.
The Police Response That Failed
West Midlands Police officers arrived at the scene and conducted what they described as a welfare check. Despite clear concerns from witnesses, the officers concluded Macey-lea was simply asleep and required no medical intervention. They departed the location after reportedly speaking with her, leaving the young woman alone in the vehicle.
A Family's Worst Nightmare
The situation took a tragic turn hours later when Macey-lea's devastated family made the horrifying discovery themselves. Returning to the vehicle, they found the 23-year-old dead inside - the very same car where police had declared her perfectly healthy just hours earlier.
Seeking Answers Amid Grief
Macey-lea's heartbroken mother, Stacey, expressed her family's anguish and confusion. "How could this happen?" she questioned. "The police told us she was fine, that they'd spoken to her. Now we're planning her funeral."
The grieving family is demanding a full investigation into the police response and whether different actions could have prevented this tragedy. "We need to know why they didn't get her proper medical help when people were clearly worried about her," Stacey added.
Official Response and Investigation
West Midlands Police have confirmed they've referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). A police spokesperson stated: "We understand this is a devastating time for Macey-lea's family and we're conducting a thorough review of our response."
The case has raised serious questions about police procedures for welfare checks and highlighted the potential consequences when vulnerable individuals are not properly assessed by emergency responders.
