Man accused of 'kind and caring' Leeds woman's murder dies in custody
Man accused of murder has died while in custody in prison
A man accused of murdering a Leeds woman, whose body was found in a tower block, has died while in custody in prison.
Colin Mann was charged with the murder of Tracy Davenport at Cottingley Towers after her body was discovered on July 24.
An investigation is underway after West Yorkshire Police said they received a call from HMP Armley on Friday morning.
A spokeswoman for the force said: “Police received a call from HMP Armley advising that a prisoner had died after being taken to hospital.
“The report was received at 4.48am on July 31.
“The death is being treated as unexplained.”
The 52-year-old was not present at Leeds Crown Court last week for a brief hearing where a provisional trial date had been set for February 8.
He was yet to enter a plea.
Following her death the family of Ms Davenport said: “A tribute to the most beautiful, kind, caring mother, sister, aunty, nana, niece and daughter.
“Tracy would help anybody and put everybody before herself, she would give you her last penny. Tracy lit up any room she walked into.
“A beautiful woman [taken] too soon in the most horrific, unspeakable manner.
“Tracy, aka mum, you will be forever loved and missed forever more. There are no words to describe the void that this tragedy has left and can never again be filled.
“Love you always Alison, Adian and family.”