A psychology graduate was found dead inside a Nottingham home, with a 40-year-old man and woman arrested over her death in what police are treating as murder.
Stephanie Irons, 23, was discovered dead at a property on Westdale Lane West in Mapperley on Tuesday, 21st October. The family of the young woman are mourning the loss of their bright young star following the tragedy.
Police attended the scene around 10.07pm following reports of concern for a person’s safety. Officers immediately secured the area and launched a murder investigation.
Nottinghamshire Police have arrested a 40-year-old man on suspicion of murder. A woman aged 40 was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, and both remain in custody whilst detectives continue their inquiries.
Stephanie’s family released a statement through police three days after her death, paying tribute to a daughter, sister and friend taken far too soon. They described how Steph had an infectious smile and laugh which lit up any room she walked into.
The family said she was a beautiful, loving and caring daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend who had a compassion for others and would always see good in everybody. They revealed she had a huge heart and wore it on her sleeve.
Her ambition to become a psychologist was well on the way after gaining both a degree and master’s in clinical psychology. The family stated that after gaining experience, she was about to apply for her doctorate in clinical psychology, representing years of dedicated study and commitment to helping others.
Stephanie was a student at Nottingham Trent University and had dedicated herself to pursuing a career in mental health support. Her academic achievements demonstrated exceptional ability and determination to make a difference in people’s lives.
The family added that their bright young star has had her future taken away and whilst they cannot comprehend what has happened, she will be forever with them. The statement captured the devastating sense of loss and incomprehension that follows sudden violent death.
Flowers and scented candles were laid outside the property in Westdale Lane West in tribute to the young woman. Neighbours and members of the community paid their respects as news of the tragedy spread through the area.
A crime scene remained around the property as officers continued to carry out their investigations yesterday. Forensic teams have been working methodically to gather evidence that could establish the circumstances of Stephanie’s death.
Detective Inspector Stuart Barson of Nottinghamshire Police said earlier this week that their deepest condolences are with the woman’s family and friends at this difficult time. He confirmed they are being supported by specially trained officers throughout the investigation.
Det Insp Barson stated that a team of detectives are working at pace to progress the investigation and urged anyone who was in the area before, during and after the incident to come forward. He specifically requested that anyone who may have recorded CCTV, dash-cam or mobile phone footage should contact police.
Officers will be carrying out additional patrols in the area and residents can expect to see an increased police presence whilst inquiries continue. The visible policing aims to reassure the community and gather potential witness testimony.
The detective inspector said he would like to reassure residents that police believe this is an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public. The statement aimed to calm concerns whilst acknowledging the serious nature of the investigation.
A Sheffield-registered taxi outside Oxclose Police Station was also cordoned off, although it remains unconfirmed whether this was related to the investigation. Police have not commented on the significance of the vehicle.
The arrests of both a man and woman suggest police are investigating whether multiple people played roles in Stephanie’s death or its aftermath. The charge of assisting an offender indicates potential involvement in covering up the crime.
Mapperley is a residential suburb of Nottingham known for its family homes and generally low crime rates. The murder has shocked the local community where such serious incidents are rare.
Nottingham Trent University has not yet publicly commented on the death of its student. Educational institutions typically offer support services to students and staff affected by such tragedies.
The investigation continues as detectives piece together the final hours of Stephanie’s life and the events that led to her death. Post-mortem examinations will establish the cause of death and provide crucial evidence for prosecutors.
The two suspects remain in police custody whilst officers work to build their case. They can be held for up to 96 hours before being charged or released, though extensions can be granted in serious cases.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting incident 677 of 21st October 2025, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Even seemingly minor details could prove vital to the investigation.
Follow for more updates on Britannia Daily
