The body of a young woman described as “beautiful and talented” was found in her residence in Bolton, a year after her passing, according to Bolton Coroner’s Court. Charlotte Leader, 23, was discovered deceased in her flat on Newbury Walk, Bolton, Greater Manchester, during a welfare check by the police on August 6.

Charlotte’s family, including her mother Chantay Simm, revealed that they had not been in contact with her since September 2021 and despite efforts to locate her, she remained elusive. Neighbors also mentioned that they never saw Charlotte leaving her home.

Paying tribute on social media, her family expressed, “Charlotte was a remarkably talented young woman, excelling in guitar, keyboard, and art. She was deeply loved by her family and will be dearly missed.”

Assistant Coroner Stephen Teasdale noted that Charlotte struggled with mental health issues, leading her to distance herself from family and mental health services. Despite declining a mental health appointment in 2022, there was no evidence of illicit drugs or concerning content in her diaries.

Charlotte’s sister, Caroline Calow, mentioned Charlotte’s history of eating disorders, particularly bulimia. The flat where Charlotte was found showed no signs of medication and appeared well-maintained.

During the investigation, a significant number of letters were found in the flat, along with food in the fridge with sell-by dates in 2024. Charlotte’s body was discovered under a duvet.

Detective Inspector Paul Quinn described the flat as minimally furnished and exceptionally clean, with no indication of suicidal intent. Conversations on Charlotte’s phone were exclusively with ChatGPT, a chatbot service she sought help from.

Dr. Andrew Coates, a pathologist at Royal Bolton Hospital, mentioned the challenges of examining Charlotte’s remains, which had mummified over the year, a natural process.

The inquest, presided over by Mr. Teasdale, ended with an open verdict due to insufficient evidence to determine the cause of Charlotte’s death.