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Man arrested as police confirm death of Sabrina Goacher in Church Road, Tunbridge Wells

A man has been arrested after a photographer was found dead in woodland.

A large section of Church Road, as well as grassy areas next to Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons, have been cordoned off by officers since the start of the week when Sabrina Goacher's body was discovered.

Officers will not confirm why the man has been arrested.

A forensic tent was still in place at the scene on Wednesday, along with two police vans and patrolling officers, while work continued to formally identify a body found just before 9pm on Monday.

Detectives have since confirmed the body is that of 30-year-old Miss Goacher, a popular photographer who worked with local festivals and bands, and who had been reported missing over the weekend.

A post-mortem completed on Tuesday was unable to establish the cause of her death and further tests are to be carried out over the coming days.

Sabrina Goacher (15470554)
Sabrina Goacher (15470554)

A local man in his 30s, who was known to Sabrina, was arrested following her death and has been bailed while inquiries continue.

Senior investigating officer, Det Ch Insp Tristan Kluibenschadl said: "We are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sabrina’s death and are appealing for information from anybody who may have seen her between August 18 and 19.

A forensic tent has been put up in Church Road, Tunbridge Wells (15541324)
A forensic tent has been put up in Church Road, Tunbridge Wells (15541324)

"Sabrina was last seen at 6.17am on Sunday 18 August in St John’s Road wearing a yellow reversible jacket and then at 6.23am in Mount Ephraim with the jacket reversed and showing a dark green material with yellow lining."

Miss Goacher is described as being 5ft 4ins tall and of slim build. She was carrying a black patterned handbag that was later recovered by officers.

The bag Sabrina was carrying just before her death (15572594)
The bag Sabrina was carrying just before her death (15572594)

A South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesman said: "At 8.53pm on Monday we sent two response cars and an ambulance to Church Road, Tunbridge Wells to support Kent Police who were dealing with an unresponsive person.

"Despite all efforts nothing could be done for the patient and the police are investigating the circumstances."

Police remain at Church Road (15541322)
Police remain at Church Road (15541322)

Miss Goacher had recently worked as a front of house supervisor at West Kent College.

A college spokesman said: "We are deeply saddened to hear this news. Sabrina was a well-liked and valued member of our team.

"Our sincerest condolences go out to her family and friends, our thoughts are with them at this time."

Sabrina had last been seen walking home at 6am on Sunday
Sabrina had last been seen walking home at 6am on Sunday

Friends also paid tribute to Miss Goacher on social media, including Matt Lucas who described her as "one of the nicest, most genuine people I've ever met".

James MacLeod wrote: "These last few days have been unbelievable. From the first initial alert to you going missing, until the dreadful news none of us wanted to hear.

"It still hasn't sunk in totally and I guess it wont for sometime. All of your friends being together the last few days is testament to the amazingly beautiful person you truly truly were.

"Thank you for capturing some of the amazing times we all spent together with your amazing eye for a picture, especially the morning of our wedding.

"Having you at our house photographing us getting ready was a memory I will treasure forever, along with all the other times. Sleep peacefully Sabrina."

Anyone with information that may help the police investigation is asked to call the appeal line on 01622 653511 quoting reference 19-0719.

Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells

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