OAP DEATHS: Inquest is told wife was strangled
AN inquest has been opened into the deaths of a couple who were found dead at their home in Stockport.
The bodies of Denis and Lynda Cooper were discovered at their house on Sandown Road, in Hazel Grove, on August 25.
Police immediately launched a murder investigation, however detectives say they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the investigation.
An inquest into the couple’s deaths was opened ton Monday (September 7).
Stockport Coroners’ Court heard that Lynda Dianne Cooper, 72, was born in Hammersmith, London. She was a retired assessment and review officer and lived at Sandown Road, in Stockport, with her husband.
Denis Thomas Cooper, 69, was born in Hale Barns. A retired operations manager he also lived at Sandown Road, the court heard.
Senior Coroner Alison Mutch said: “Mr and Mrs Cooper were both found deceased at their home address on August 25, 2020.
“A police investigation has continued.”
Mrs Mutch said a Home Office pathologist has carried out post mortem examinations on both Mr and Mrs Cooper.
Though the coroner is awaiting the full post mortem reports, a provisional cause of death was recorded for both.
Mrs Cooper died of strangulation, while Mr Cooper died from hanging, the court heard.
The coroner said full pathological reports in relation to both Mr and Mrs Cooper are awaited and police enquiries are ongoing.
She adjourned proceedings for a pre-inquest review to take place on December 2.
Speaking to the coroners’ officer, Mrs Mutch added: “Please pass on my condolences to the family of Mr and Mrs Cooper at this very difficult time for them.”
Emergency services were called to Sandown Road following a ‘report of concern for the occupants’ at around 7.30pm on Tuesday, August 25.
Crime scene investigators were still at the scene the following afternoon and forensics officers were seen going inside the home.
Neighbours described Mr and Mrs Cooper as a ‘nice, friendly couple’ who had lived on the street for around three years.
One person, who asked not to be named, said: “They were a very nice, friendly couple.
“We didn’t know them really well, but would often chat about gardening.”
Another told the Express: “It’s all a bit of a shock really. I came home from work and saw all the police cars and ambulances.
“I don’t know them very well, but they were a nice friendly couple and we would always say hello in passing.
“I would see them go out for walks a lot during coronavirus.”