Mum 'chased' before fatal stabbing, inquest hears

Courtney Mitchell died after suffering stab wounds in Ipswich

A young mum who “lit up any room” was chased before being fatally stabbed multiple times in the chest, an inquest heard.

Courtney Mitchell, 26, died at Ipswich Hospital after being attacked in Burrell Road in the town at about 19:10 BST on 6 August – three days before her birthday.

Two days later, Logan Burnett, 27, of All Saints Road, Ipswich, was charged with murder. He is due to stand trial in February next year.

At Suffolk Coroner’s Court, an inquest into Miss Mitchell’s death was opened and adjourned until the conclusion of criminal proceedings.

Five members of Miss Mitchell's family attended the opening of her inquest at Suffolk Coroner's Court

During the hearing, which was attended by five members of Miss Mitchell’s family, Det Supt Nicola Wallace detailed the moments leading up to the attack.

The senior investigating officer said: “She had been in Ipswich town centre for most of the day with a group of friends.

“Just after 19:00 BST Miss Mitchell and her friends were walking towards Ipswich Skate Park when [a person] walking from the opposite direction chased Miss Mitchell.

“In Burrell Road, Miss Mitchell suffered multiple fatal stab wounds to her upper body during the attack.

“She was treated by responding police officers and paramedics at the scene and conveyed to Ipswich Hospital where sadly she was declared deceased.”

Det Supt Wallace asked for the inquest be opened and then adjourned until further work in relation to the investigation is completed and the trial has concluded.

Coroner Tim Deeming granted the request, before turning to the family and saying: “Please accept my sincere condolences.”

Suffolk Police launched a murder investigation following Miss Mitchell's death on 6 August

Following her death, Miss Mitchell's family paid tribute, describing her as "beautiful" in a joint statement.

It read: "No amount of words can comprehend what type of person Courtney was but we will try to share some of her light.

"Her contagious smile lit up any room and her laughter was the sweetest sound in our home. Her kindness had no limits, she was always there for everybody - family, friend, or stranger.

"She was helpful in every way possible; her empathy knew no bounds. She was fun, fierce and extremely loyal."

Miss Mitchell was a mother with two sons and a daughter who, her family said, loved her "immeasurably".

"We miss you and you are forever in our hearts and as a family we are completely and utterly devastated and broken," they added.

"A void will always be left and a place at the table will always be set for you.

"We will continue to fight for her and get her the justice she deserves as she deserves the world and more."