Stoke couple found dead with gunshot wounds were ‘devoted’ to each other

An elderly couple found dead with gunshots wounds at their Staffordshire bungalow were “devoted” to each other, a neighbour has said.

Dora Leese, 77, was found with gunshot wounds to her chest at their home in Meir Park, Staffordshire, next to her husband, Peter, 78, who also had gunshot wounds, on 20 April.

Staffordshire police said at the time: “We are continuing to investigate Peter and Dora’s deaths, but we would like to reassure the community that we are not looking for anyone else in relation to this tragic incident. Their family continue to be supported by specialist officers.”

One neighbour told local media the couple were “devoted” to each other. Peter had cancer and had been discharged from the Royal Stoke university hospital earlier that day, according to the neighbour, who said he had spoken to the couple’s son.

Inquests into both deaths were adjourned in May. Referring to Dora Leese, the North Staffordshire area coroner, Daniel Howe, said then: “She was found at home with what is believed to be multiple gunshot wounds in the chest.”

Opening Peter Leese’s inquest, the coroner added: “He was found at his home address with gunshot wounds that may have contributed to the cause of death but not something that can be identified today so the inquest is adjourned and all family will be notified.”