A coroner in the Midlands has opened an inquest into the death of a Machynlleth-born woman who disappeared 15 years ago, despite authorities never finding her body and a murder investigation being launched.
Seventeen-year-old Natalie Putt, who was born in Machynlleth and spent time living in the town and in Aberystwyth, went missing in September 2003 and has never been found.
West Midlands Police announced in 2017 that the force was still investigating Natalie’s disappearance, and had also launched a murder inquiry although no body has been discovered.
A police spokesperson confirmed that investigation is still ongoing, while Black Country coroner Zafar Siddique opened an inquest for Natalie on Wednesday, 28 November before adjourning it to another hearing in January.
Natalie went missing after she left her 11-week-old son Rhys with his father at her home in Thornleigh in the Midlands, saying that she was going to get cigarettes, but disappeared.
Police launched a major search operation at the time, but failed to find Natalie.
The police force confirmed in 2017 that the case was now a murder investigation.
A spokesperson said that investigation is still ongoing.
They said: “The investigation into the disappearance and murder of Natalie Putt continues.
“If anyone has any information - no matter how insignificant they feel it might be - we urge them to contact the investigation team on 101.”
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