Tragedy unfolded in the Pattison family as the inquest into the deaths of George Pattison, his wife Emma, and their daughter Lettie began at Surrey Coroner’s Court. George Pattison, the alleged perpetrator, reportedly died from a self-inflicted shotgun wound to the head, according to details presented during the hearing.
The grim incident came to light on February 5 when Emma Pattison, aged 45, made a distressed call to her sister. The subsequent discovery of the lifeless bodies at their residence on the grounds of Epsom College, Surrey, sent shockwaves through the community.
Coroner Simon Wickens, presiding over the inquest, expressed condolences to George Pattison’s extended family during the opening proceedings. Coroner’s officer Kelly Truss provided insights into the post-mortem examination conducted by Dr. Ashley Fegan-Earle at East Surrey Hospital, confirming the cause of George Pattison’s death as a “shotgun wound to the head.” Identification was established through dental records.
Toxicology and histology reports were noted to be part of the ongoing investigation. The inquest set a date for a pre-inquest review hearing on June 27, with separate hearings for Emma Pattison and Lettie yet to be scheduled.
The incident prompted Surrey Police to conduct an internal review, and details regarding the family’s demise have not been publicly disclosed. However, it was revealed that a firearm registered to George Pattison, aged 39, was discovered at the scene.
Notably, George Pattison had been in contact with the police a few days prior, discussing changes to his firearms license following the family’s move onto school grounds. The lack of apparent concern about the presence of a gun and ammunition at his residence has raised questions about the handling of the situation.
Relatives of Emma Pattison and Lettie released a poignant tribute through Surrey Police earlier this month, remembering Emma’s contributions as Epsom’s first female head. The Epsom College community mourned the loss of a beloved leader and a promising young life.
Sir Anthony Seldon, set to assume the role of headteacher at Epsom College, pledged to honor Emma’s legacy and steer the institution forward in accordance with her vision. The tragic event has spurred an internal review by Surrey Police, with the Independent Office for Police Conduct overseeing the process.
While grappling with the aftermath of this devastating incident, the community reflects on the profound impact Emma Pattison had as an educator and leader, emphasizing the need to preserve her legacy and the values she embodied.
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