Couple died from gunshot wounds, inquest confirms

Leicestershire Police said at the time that it was supporting the families of Richard and Rachel Harrison

A coroner has confirmed the cause of death of a couple whose bodies were found at their farm.

Richard Harrison, 59, and his 54-year-old wife Rachel Harrison were discovered at their home in Saddington, Leicestershire, on 15 December 2023.

An inquest in writing by area coroner Ivan Cartwright found both died from a gunshot wound to the head.

A police investigation concluded Mr Harrison had unlawfully killed his wife, shooting her twice in the head and once in the chest before shooting himself, the inquest heard.

The couple were found in a stable outbuilding on the farm by a family member and a friend.

A report of the inquest said: "Extensive police investigation concluded that the relationship between Mrs Harrison and her husband had been strained for some years and had broken down irretrievably in the months leading up to her death."

The inquest heard Mr Harrison used a lawfully-held rifle to shoot his wife, before moving her into the stable building where they were both found.

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