‘Leanne was strong, vibrant mischievous and beautiful’
THE family of Leanne Collopy have paid tribute to the ‘strong, vibrant, mischievous and beautiful’ mum after murderer Saleem Said was jailed for life.
In a statement released after the hearing, they said: “As a family we will never get over what happened to Leanne.
“She was strong, vibrant, mischievous and beautiful inside and out.
“She was the most amazing mum, daughter, granddaughter, sister and friend and has left a huge void in all our lives. Leanne was taken from us in the most violent and shocking manner that will haunt us all for the rest of our lives.
“We miss her more than words can say, and her two little girls must grow up without such a wonderful role-model.
“She will forever be with us in our hearts and thoughts and we will focus on all the good memories that we have as a family, but the reality is she should be here with us making many more memories.”
Police bosses said Saleem Said is a ‘cruel and evil man who has shown no remorse for his actions’ and that Leanne Collopy’s ‘brave actions’ had saved her daughter’s life.
Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Willis, of Lancashire Police’s Force Major Investigation Team, said: “Our investigation revealed his plans to commit this offence started several weeks before and involved the purchase of items to enable him to carry it out.
“On Sunday, July 30, Leanne was enjoying an evening at her friend’s house when she was contacted by Said.
He lured her back to her home address having concocted a story that their daughter needed her mum.
“She returned home and once Said got inside he viciously attacked her and set fire to the property.
“Leanne and her daughter suffered horrendous injuries. It is clear she tried everything possible to protect her daughter and get her to safety. I have no doubt Leanne’s brave actions that evening saved her daughter’s life.
“The scene which my colleagues and members of the public encountered was truly shocking and I must praise their bravery at the scene in helping those inside the address to safety.
“Furthermore, l must also thank the wider emergency services for their help in extremely traumatic and ultimately tragic circumstances.
“We welcome today’s verdict and I feel the sentence reflects the callous and cowardly attack committed by Said on two defenceless victims. Specially trained officers continue to support the family who have behaved with immense dignity following this senseless attack. I hope today’s outcome provides some small comfort to them.”