Fatal fire broke out in bathroom
A MAN died of severe burns after he started a fire in the bathroom of his first floor flat in Clifton, an inquest has heard.
A virtual hearing at Nottingham Council House was told “self-immolation through a naked flame” was the most likely cause of the fire that led to the death of Guy Coombs.
Coroner Laurinda Bower, HM Assistant Coroner for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ruled Mr Coombs, 33, of Angell Green, Clifton, died of severe burns after a fire started in his bathroom of his first floor flat.
The fire broke out on Monday, October 5 and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service crews from West Bridgford, London Road and Highfields were called to the incident shortly after 8pm.
A spokesperson for the Fire Service said: “On arrival at the scene, firefighters entered the property and discovered Mr Coombs who showed no signs of life. He was pronounced dead at the scene. There was no one else in the property.”
Concluding the case, and offering her narrative verdict, Miss Bower described the case as ‘tragic.’
Miss Bower said: “Guy died by his own hand, by way of self-immolation, at a time when the balance of his mind was disturbed.
“I wish to offer my sincere condolences to all who knew Guy.
“Thank you to the brave members of the public who alerted Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to the fire.
“As I stated during the inquest, there was nothing more they could have done to save Guy.”
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service Fire Investigation Manager Lucie Poxon said: “What happened in this fire was tragic, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr Coombs at this time.
“Sadly, this is another example of the devastation that fire can cause, and we would really urge people to follow the advice we give, particularly around having an escape plan.
“It’s also worth noting that the alarm was raised in this incident by a working smoke alarm and while, unfortunately, Mr Coombs lost his life, the fire did not spread to neighbouring flats.
“We really can’t emphasise enough the importance of having these devices on every level of the property and checking them every week.
“We also continue to offer our Safe and Well visits for vulnerable people.”
If you would like to talk, you can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.