**Young Woman Discovered Dead Near Gwynedd Road, Inquest Opens**
A young woman found dead in woodland adjacent to a busy road in Gwynedd has been officially identified as Karenza Williams. The 24-year-old, who worked as a carer and lived in the village of Maentwrog near Blaenau Ffestiniog, was the subject of a police search after being reported missing the evening before her body was discovered.
The inquest into Ms Williams’ death was formally opened in Caernarfon on Friday by senior coroner for north west Wales, Kate Robertson. The proceedings heard that Ms Williams was tragically found in a wooded area close to the A496, a primary route passing through several communities including Maentwrog and Llandecwyn.
Police were first alerted after receiving a missing person report late on Monday, 7 July. Officers began searching the area, enlisting support from members of the local community and other emergency services. By the following morning, on Tuesday 8 July, police made the sombre discovery in woodland not far from the main road. Ms Williams was pronounced deceased at 8.51am by police, who also formally identified her at the scene.
The A496 was subsequently closed in both directions between Maentwrog and Talsarnau while investigators worked at the location. The closure, which began shortly before 10am, lasted through lunchtime, causing disruption to local traffic but allowing police to carry out essential enquiries. North Wales Police later thanked the local community and drivers for their patience during the closure.
A post mortem was conducted by consultant pathologist Dr Muhammad Zain Mehdi, who gave a provisional cause of death as hanging. The coroner, expressing her sympathies to the family, emphasised the tragic nature of the case. “I pass on my condolences to the family and friends of Karenza Williams,” Ms Robertson said, before adjourning the inquest to a later date to allow for further investigations and evidence gathering.
Police have confirmed that, at this stage, they are not treating the circumstances of Ms Williams’ death as suspicious. A spokesperson for North Wales Police stated: “Sadly, we can confirm that the body of a woman was found in woodland near to the A496 at Llandecwyn earlier this morning (Tuesday, 8 July). We’d like to thank motorists and the local community for their patience whilst the road was closed.” The statement added that enquiries are continuing, but there are no indications of foul play.
Ms Williams’ passing has brought significant sadness to the rural Gwynedd village and beyond, as residents and colleagues remember her dedication to her work as a carer. The tragedy has underscored the challenges faced by families and authorities during unexpected loss, and has highlighted the importance of community efforts during crisis situations.
Meanwhile, the coroner’s office will continue to work closely with police and medical experts to best understand the circumstances leading to Ms Williams’ death. The upcoming full inquest will aim to provide answers for the family and community, following the completion of post mortem and toxicology reports.
Support services have been signposted to those affected locally, with authorities reminding individuals of the help available through healthcare providers, charities, and mental health organisations.
The story has resonated deeply with many across Wales, and tributes have begun to appear across social media platforms, expressing condolences to Ms Williams’ friends, family, and colleagues. As the investigation continues, the community remains united in mourning the loss of a young life.