Suspected drugs link after two women found dead

The women, aged 38 and 51, were found dead at residential properties in the Lower Grange area of the city on Sunday afternoon.

Paramedics and police attended and both women were pronounced dead at the addresses.

The women are not related but were known to each other, police said.

Two local men have been arrested and released on bail following questioning.

West Yorkshire Police said yesterday that they had not established a link between the deaths “at this stage”.

However, it is understood that detectives are probing the possibility that both women may have died by accident after taking a powerful prescription painkiller which may have been sold illegally in the local area.

The high strength of the painkillers may have played a part in the women’s deaths, it is believed. It is not clear why the women took the drugs. Detectives are investigating their backgrounds and their movements prior to them being found at the weekend.

Last night a police spokesman said further toxicology tests - used to detect the presence of substances such as drugs and alcohol - will need to take place.

The spokesman added: “The deaths are being treated as unexplained and post mortems have taken place.

“Cause of death at this stage has not been established and further toxicology tests will take place.

“Both addresses have been subject to extensive searches. Local officers have been present in the area today reassuring the community.”

Two local men aged 31 and 45 have been arrested in connection to the investigation, interviewed and released on police bail.

The younger woman was found at an address in Mallard Court and the elder was found at an address in Sheldrake Avenue.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have any information to contact them on: 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.