Police probe death of homeless woman whose singing made her a social media star

Police are investigating the death of a homeless woman who became a social media sensation thanks to videos of her singing to strangers.

Keeley Thornton, 34, was beloved in her home city of Sheffield, South Yorks., and would often be filmed singing a version of club classic 'Freed from Desire by passersby.

She would also make friends with drunk university students and videos of her singing 'I’m Like a Bird' by Nelly Furtado would get up to 800,000 views online.

Tragically she died in hospital on Tuesday after being found unconscious in the Arundel Gate area of the city at around 6.15pm.

A 47-year-old woman was on suspicion of administering a noxious substance and released on bail.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said Keeley's death is currently being treated as "unexplained."

Tributes have been paid to Keeley after her death by locals who interacted with her in the city centre.

Mart Donnelly, 29, described her as "a ray of sunshine", adding: "Every time I used to see Keeley in town, she was a joy of sunshine.

"There wasn't ever a moment she was unhappy.

"It's so tragic what's happened to her and she will be deeply missed by so many people."

A Go Fund Me page has been set up by Cherie Lowe, who said Keeley had a "beautiful heart" and "will now be at peace".

Visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/cotton-wool-keeley-Thornton to donate to the fundraiser.