Related Articles
An inquest has been opened into the tragic death of a man in Devon who suffered fatal stab wounds following an incident involving his nephew.
During a short public hearing, held by senior coroner Philip Spinney at Devon Coroner’s Court in Exeter on August 12, it was explained how Jonathan Harper was born in Oxford and resided at a property in The Crescent in Sevenoaks.
Mr Spinney said he passed away on the evening of July 31 this year at a property in Pikes Cottage Road in Brampford Speke, near Exeter. He was stated as being single and a retired teacher by occupation.
READ NEXT:
Gas works halted after Roman wall discovery
Spar and Post Office ram raiders escape with cash and vapes
The inquest heard how Mr Harper, aged 64, was visiting Devon with his family at the request of his niece but at the end of what was described as a “routine day of normal activity” an altercation occurred. Mr Spinney stated that reasons behind the altercation were unknown but it resulted in Mr Harper receiving stab wounds to the chest.
He said an ambulance was called but sadly the efforts of paramedics was fruitless and Mr Harper passed away at the scene.
The medical cause of death has yet to be established. Mr Spinney adjourned the hearing and a full inquest will take place at a later date.
Following inquiries by police Corin Harper-Davis, 36, of Dermody Road, Hither Green, London was arrested at a location near to the property in Pikes Cottage Road and charged with the murder of Mr Harper.
Harper-Davis is also accused of assaulting a police officer during the same alleged incident. No pleas were entered during the hearing at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Saturday August 3 where it was confirmed the accused was the nephew of Mr Harper. Harper-Davis was later remanded into custody to appear at Exeter Crown Court for a plea hearing.
Want the latest Devon breaking news and top stories first?Click here to join our WhatsApp group. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read ourPrivacy Notice
