Inquest into death of police officer found in Emsworth house

A police officer described as ‘feisty’ and quick to ‘fire up’ was discovered hanged at a house in Emsworth.
Stephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Children  Start of LifeStephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Children  Start of Life
Stephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Children  Start of Life

Raymond Hutchinson, 34, of Woodthorpe Gardens, Southampton, had recently moved in with his mother and father-in-law in Woodfield Park Road, Emsworth.

An inquest into his death was held at Park House, in Horsham, on September 9.

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John Halloran, coroner’s officer, said: “Two weeks prior to his death he moved out of the marital home. He remained in contact with his wife and children.

“He would react and then think about it. He was a feisty character who was quick to fire up and quick to come down.

“Mr Hutchinson’s best friend was last to contact him. He thought he was a bit down but there was nothing to alarm him.”

A police investigation ruled out any third party involvement in Mr Hutchinson’s death.

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Assistant coroner for West Sussex, Dr Karen Henderson said: “Mr Hutchinson did wish to take his own life but the big burden of proof for that has not been met in these circumstances.

“As such the only conclusion I can come to is this is an open verdict.”

Dr Henderson said there was a ‘lack’ of evidence 
Mr Hutchinson had intended to take his own life.

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