Retired firefighter found dead after concern for welfare raised

An inquest has recorded the death of a retired firefighter whose body was found by police. The brief hearing was held by senior coroner Philip Spinney at Exeter County Hall, now the main coroner's court for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.

Mr Spinney said that Mark was born in Kent and resided at an address in Hooe, Plymouth and at the time of his death he was divorced and a retired fireman.

The inquest, held on January 15, heard that concerns for the welfare of the 67-year-old were raised and as a result police were called to his home at 4.17am on October 9, 2024.

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Mr Spinney said: "The circumstances are that following a concern for welfare report, police attended Mark's home address and he was found deceased."

The medical cause of his death was confirmed as pneumothorax - also known as a collapsed lung - caused by posterior rib fracture and alcoholic ketoacidosis.

Mr Spinney adjourned the hearing and a full inquest will take place at a later date.

Plymouth City Council has previously confirmed that any family or friends who wishes to attend the full inquest can request for it to be held at Plymouth's Coroner's Court instead of having to travel to Exeter.