A woman who was reported missing in mid-April has been found dead in the garden of her estranged husband’s home, a coroner’s court has heard.
Paria Veisi, 37, originally from Iran and living in Cardiff, was reported missing to South Wales Police on 13 April. She was last seen the previous day, 12 April, leaving work at around 3pm and driving a black Mercedes. The vehicle was later discovered abandoned on a quiet residential street in the Penylan area, near Roath.
During the inquest opening at Pontypridd Coroner’s Court on Thursday, it was revealed that police officers had initially attended her estranged husband’s address shortly after she was reported missing. However, it was not until 16 April that officers returned to the property and discovered Ms Veisi’s body in the garden.
A post-mortem examination, conducted on 23 April by pathologist Dr Stephen Leadbeatter, confirmed that Ms Veisi had died from stab wounds to the neck and upper chest.
Coroner Patricia Morgan told the hearing: “On the basis of evidence set out this morning in respect of Paria Veisi, I have reason to suspect her death might be violent in nature.
“This morning I opened the inquest into Ms Veisi’s death but I have been informed by South Wales Police that there is an ongoing homicide investigation with potential proceedings to follow. I therefore suspend this inquest until such a time when criminal proceedings have reached their conclusion.”
Two individuals have since been charged in connection with Ms Veisi’s death. Alireza Askari, 41, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court charged with her murder, preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
Maryam Delavary, 48, of White City, London, also appeared in court, charged with preventing a lawful and decent burial and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Both defendants are currently remanded in custody and are due to reappear on 16 May.
In the wake of the discovery, a vigil was held at the Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay, where around 100 mourners gathered to remember Ms Veisi. The church quickly filled to capacity, with attendees moving outside to allow others the opportunity to pay their respects.
Speaking ahead of the service, close friend Sara Rezaei delivered a moving tribute: “Paria wasn’t just someone in the headlines—she was a kind, caring, and vibrant soul who brought joy to everyone around her. She was caring, selfless and always ready to help. We are devastated, heartbroken, and still in shock.”
Coroner Patricia Morgan concluded the inquest hearing by expressing her “deepest condolences to Paria Veisi’s family and friends at such a difficult time”.
