The body of a devoted mother-of-two has been recovered from a canal in Greater Manchester after she failed to collect her young daughters from their babysitter.
A Mother's Tragic Discovery
Jana Bahvalova, a 29-year-old Latvian citizen, was pulled from the Bridgewater Canal in Altrincham on the morning of Wednesday, 10 December 2025. Emergency services were called to Atlantic Street shortly before 8.30am following reports of a body in the water.
The alarm was initially raised on 8 December, when Jana did not arrive to pick up her two daughters, Adelina and Kate, from their babysitter. She was reported missing that day.
A Life Dedicated to Her Daughters
Paying tribute, her sister Diāna described Jana as a 'devoted' mother with a 'quiet, kind and gentle soul'. She had been raising her girls alone following a separation from her husband.
'Her daughters were her entire world, and everything she did was for them,' Diāna said. 'Jana was raising her two daughters on her own, always doing everything she could to provide a safe, loving and stable home. She never complained even when life was challenging.'
Jana, who worked as a hotel cleaner, was remembered by those who knew her as hardworking, reliable, and humble. Her sister highlighted that cycling was a passion that brought her peace and happiness.
Police Investigation and Community Grief
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they attended the scene and recovered the woman's body. The death is not currently being treated as suspicious, and a file is being prepared for the coroner.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, and the local community. Diāna stated that her passing has deeply affected all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting Jana's two young daughters and understanding the circumstances that led to this tragedy in Altrincham.
