THE PRIME suspect in a murder case of a tragic young mum died in prison, it emerged today.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Harrod of Thames Valley Police confirmed John Wright died while in custody.

Wright, of The Hollands, Thatcham, was suspected of strangling Janine Bowater, 25, to death.

The 32-year-old was due to appear before a crown court judge on Friday, December 22, but he died the night before.

His case was officially discontinued at Reading Crown Court today (Friday).

Addressing the judge, Michael Roques, prosecuting, said: "As your honour knows, Wright died and the case was adjourned in order for the prosecution to obtain evidence of the death.

"We now have that evidence, the officer in the case is present in court and he attended the post-mortem examination.

"The crown are satisfied we have done what we must and in the circumstances can I ask that we discontinue the matter."

Ms Bowater was found dead at her Thatcham home on Tuesday, December 12.

A murder probe was launched and Wright was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.

Family members described Ms Bowater, a mother to two young children, as "amazing".

A tribute reads: "Losing a loved one is never easy but we have lost Janine in one of the most awful ways possible. She has been so cruelly taken from her partner Lee and her two young children who she doted on.

“Not only were you an amazing caring mother and daughter you were also a loving partner and sister.

“Little did we know that night, all our lives would change forever. You will be missed so much by all your family and everyone that loves you.

“Sleep tight beautiful, shine bright, you’ll forever be in our hearts.”