Tragedy of mother and son double death

A MAN from Hailsham stabbed his mother to death before driving five miles away and committing suicide in his car.

Terrance Hamblen, aged 50, lived in Beuzeville Avenue, Hailsham, with his mum Joan, aged 77. His body was discovered at Trolliloes near Cowbeech on the evening of August 3.

Mr Hamblen had attached a hose pipe to the car's exhaust and fed the other end into the driver's compartment through the front window. He died from asphyxiation.

Subsequent enquiries led officers to his home address on the following day. They discovered the body of Mrs Hamblen, which had sustained several fatal stab wounds.

A police investigation ensued and officers have confirmed they are not looking for anyone else in connection with either incident.

Post mortem examinations were carried out on both bodies in the days following the discoveries and inquests were opened and adjourned for both on August 15.

Coroner's officers are unsure when the inquests will resume but have confirmed that a double inquest is likely.