Inquest Opens into Tragic Death of Devon Pensioner Found in Sea
An inquest has been formally opened into the tragic death of an 80-year-old Devon man who was found deceased in the water after failing to return from a coastal walk. The brief public hearing took place at Exeter County Hall on January 20, where senior coroner Philip Spinney commenced proceedings into the passing of Paul Fearns.
Details of the Incident Emerge
Mr Spinney outlined the circumstances surrounding the incident, revealing that Mr Fearns was reported missing on the evening of September 28, 2025, after he did not return home from a walk. The following morning, on September 29, a member of the public discovered his body in the water at Ladrum Bay, near Otterton, which is close to the Sidmouth area.
The medical cause of death was provided as immersion in seawater, with ischemic heart disease listed as a contributory factor. Mr Fearns, a retired carpenter, was born in Sidmouth and resided at a property in Brewery Lane, Sidmouth. He was married at the time of his death.
Multi-Agency Search and Recovery Operation
A significant multi-agency response was mobilised during the search on the morning of September 29. The operation involved:
- Officers from Exmouth patrol and Rural East Devon patrol
- Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Search & Rescue Teams
- Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat
- The Coastguard helicopter
- South West Ambulance Service
It was confirmed that the body was recovered by the Sidmouth lifeboat and conveyed to the beach, but sadly, Mr Fearns had already passed away. The coroner has adjourned the hearing, with a full inquest scheduled to take place at a later, unspecified date.
Community Impact and Safety Considerations
This incident has undoubtedly sent shockwaves through the local community in Sidmouth and the wider Devon area. It highlights the inherent risks associated with coastal walking, particularly for elderly individuals, even in familiar surroundings. The extensive emergency response underscores the seriousness with which such missing person reports are treated by authorities.
While the full inquest will examine the details more thoroughly, the opening of the proceedings marks a formal step in understanding the events that led to this heartbreaking outcome. The community now awaits further developments as the investigation continues.
