A shocking case in Bolton, Greater Manchester, has highlighted the risks of social isolation and mental health struggles among young adults. Charlotte Leader, 23, was found dead in her apartment, lying under her duvet as if asleep, in what authorities believe was roughly a year after her passing. Her body was discovered on August 6, 2025, during a welfare check by police. Forensic experts noted the body had “mummified,” consistent with having gone undiscovered for about a year.
Bolton Coroner’s Court heard that the apartment was clean and orderly, with no evidence of illegal substances or self-harm. Police records noted food in the fridge with expiration dates as recent as July 2024. The one-bedroom flat, accessible only via the front door, contained minimal furniture but was stacked with parcels and deliveries. Officers were called when the building management could not reach her for a routine check, discovering the apartment blocked with letters before entering and finding her body.
Investigators examined her phone for clues. It revealed almost no interaction with family or friends, aside from repeated conversations with ChatGPT, which appeared to be her only “companion.” Her final phone activity was on July 30, 2024, with messages expressing frustration over food: “Help me, I’ve went and got food again,” followed by AI responses interpreting her conflicted feelings.
Family testimony confirmed her isolation. Mother Chantay Simm explained she had not been able to contact Charlotte since September 2021, despite persistent efforts, and sister Caroline Calow noted that Charlotte had long avoided contact and struggled with bulimia. Neighbors rarely saw her leave the apartment. Caroline added that there were no signs of substance abuse and that the apartment “looked cared for, not abandoned.” The family described Charlotte as talented in guitar and keyboards, artistic, and deeply loved.
Dr. Andrew Coates from Royal Bolton Hospital stated that mummification caused severe dehydration and tissue hardening, making the exact cause of death impossible to determine. While extreme eating disorders can be life-threatening, there was insufficient evidence to conclude whether this was a factor at her passing.
Coroner Stephen Teasdale recorded an “open” verdict, noting Charlotte had previously declined mental health support in 2022, and police found several detox products in the apartment but no direct evidence explaining her death.
The tragic case underscores the silent struggles faced by young adults living alone, and the devastating consequences of isolation combined with untreated mental health issues.
