Leicester woman found dead was ‘backbone of family’, tribute says

Tarnjeet Riaz, 44, was found dead on Tarbat Road in Leicester on Monday, sparking an outpouring of grief from those who knew her best.

By: Vivek Mishra

Following the death of an Asian woman at a home in Leicester, loved ones have described her as a “bubbly and caring” person who was the “backbone” of her family.

Tarnjeet Riaz, 44, was found dead on Tarbat Road on Monday, sparking an outpouring of grief from those who knew her best.

Riaz’s vibrant personality left an indelible mark on those around her, and family members fondly remembered her as “bubbly, caring and a funny character who radiated nothing but happiness.”

“She wasn’t just a sister or a daughter; she was our best friend… Tarnjeet will be remembered by many and we are grateful that she touched all of our lives.”

“Now we can only cherish the memories we have of our Tarnjeet. We will all miss her dearly and love her always, RIP our angel,” the family said in a statement.

Police responded to a call from East Midlands Ambulance Service on Tarbat Road at around 1.30pm on Monday 6 May. They discovered Tarnjeet dead inside a residence. Authorities announced last night that Raj Sidpara, 50, of Tarbat Road in Thurnby Lodge, had been charged with her murder, Leicestershire Police said in a statement.

He was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Riaz, originally from High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, was known for her devotion to her family, including her mother, younger sister and brother.

In a statement released on behalf of the police, Riaz’s family expressed their grief, saying: “Our beloved Tarnjeet, a soul who truly cared for others more than herself. A soul who adored and cared for her mother, younger sister and younger brother.

“She took on the responsibility of a father to her siblings and was the backbone of the family. She knew what to say and do. She was not just a sister or a daughter; she was our best friend.

“A best friend who is no longer with us. It’s a cruel world we live in. Tarnjeet will be remembered by many and we are grateful that she touched all of our lives,” the family’s statement read.