Bethany Fields stabbed 'numerous times' in fatal attack, inquest hears

A 21-year-old student was stabbed numerous times in the attack which killed her , a court heard today.

An inquest at Bradford Coroner's Court was told Bethany Fields, of Bramley, Leeds, suffered 'numerous stab wounds' in the attack in Huddersfield last Thursday (September 12).

Assistant coroner Oliver Longstaff told the hearing the body of the University of York student could now be released to the family so a funeral could be arranged.

He said a friend of Ms Fields, Alex Whitelaw, had formally identified her body.

Det Insp Marc Bowes, the deputy senior investigating officer, gave evidence at the inquest this morning.

Mr Longstaff asked him if it was correct that when police arrived "she had suffered numerous stab wounds?"

DI Bowes, of West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Enquiry team, replied: "Yes"

Floral tributes to student Bethany Fields who lost her life on Friday, September 13, placed outside the Irish Centre on Fitzwilliam Street, Huddersfield (Reach Plc)

The court heard that a man had been charged with Ms Fields' murder and that a plea and management case was due to be heard on 31 October at Leeds Crown Court with a trial provisionally listed for March next year.

After hearing that preliminary post portem findings were consistent with findings at the scene Mr Longstaff said there was "no reason why I can't release the body.

"No need for her body to be retained and I release her body so funeral arrangements can be made by her family."

Mr Longstaff adjourned the inquest which he said may not be resumed dependent on what happens during consequent criminal proceedings.

Ms Fields, an at the University of York , was described as "the brightest star of them all" in a tribute released by her family.

Paul Crowther, 35, Elm Way, Birstall, has been charged with murdering Bethany.

He was due to appear at Leeds Crown Court yesterday morning, but did not attend as he refused to leave his cell.

Visit our dedicated Leeds News page for the biggest talking points from across the city. 

LeedsLive has launched a WhatsApp group to keep you up to date with the latest news! Click here to join and follow the instructions on your phone. Your number won't be shared with anyone else in the group.