Family relieved at canal death verdict

Published on 30th November 2006 in News

A Crowle pensioner drowned after falling into Crowle canal as the result of an accident, an inquest has heard.

Deanna Hearn (67), from Ealand, died on Tuesday August 22 after suffering a dizzy spell thought to have been brought on by a condition she suffered from, Mendiere's Disease, which includes dizziness among its symptoms.

Assistant coroner Paul Kelly, at North Lincolnshire's Coroner's Court, held at Scunthorpe's Pittwood House, had considered the verdict of suicide after hearing how Mrs Hearn had twice tried to take her own life.

"Having considered the possibility it is my judgement that the evidence falls short of satisfying me," he said. "It's not an easy decision for me . I've considered making it an open verdict, but I'm satisfied there's evidence to say her entry into the water was an accident brought on by her condition. I conclude she died as the result of an accident."

Feeling 'down' previous evening

Mrs Hearn was visited the evening before her death by two friends, William Godson and Linda O'Connor, who were invited round because Mrs Hearn was feeling a bit down. "By the time we left, she was a happy person," explained Mr Godson. He returned the next morning but became worried when Mrs Hearn did not return from her morning walk.

Her body was spotted floating in the canal at approximately 12.15pm by railway enthusiast Reginald Banks. He called the police and Mrs Hearn's body was retrieved from the water two hours later.

PC Glen Webb, who led the investigation, was satisfied with the result. "Nothing was found to create an investigation at that time. There were no witnesses or evidence to suggest otherwise."

Relief at conclusion of case

Mrs Hearn's son Lee said after the announcement: "I'm just happy they came to that verdict - it was the one we were hoping for."