Police appeal for information regarding 'unexplained' death of Yorkshire woman

Police have appealed for information following the “unexplained” death of a 49-year-old woman in a Yorkshire market town.

Rina Yasutake’s body was found in a house in Helmsley, on the edge of the North York Moors, on Tuesday evening.

According to reports, the alarm was raised by contractors who noticed a smell as they were working on the building on Bondgate.

Three people were arrested in connection with the incident but later released on bail.

North Yorkshire Police today named Ms Yasutake and said tests are ongoing to establish how and when she died.

Detective Chief Inspector Nichola Holden said her officers need to establish a timeline of her movements before she died and want to speak to anyone who knew her.

She said: “We realise this incident has caused concern among the local community in Helmsley and we thank everyone for their understanding while we carry out what is a very sensitive investigation into Rina’s death.”

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She added: “To assist with our investigation, I am appealing to local people and anyone in the wider area who knew Rina, not just as a friend, but also by sight, to please contact us, no matter when you last saw her.

“Your information could be vital in helping us establish the timeline prior to her death.”

A force spokeswoman confirmed that a 75-year-old woman, 46-year-old man and 51-year-old woman were arrested in connection with the incident and have all been released on conditional bail.