"This is a tragic loss of a young life": Man, 27, found dead at home after heroin overdose

A man who was found dead at home following a drugs overdose probably did not intend to take his own life, an inquest has heard. Joseph Wilkinson was found unresponsive at home in Edgeley on May 3 of this year by ambulance crews.

The 27-year-old, who lived on Posnett Street, was found in the bathroom of the house in 'non-suspicious' circumstances, Stockport Coroners' Court heard. Senior Coroner, Alison Mutch, reading evidence from DI Chris Aunins said that police attended on May 3 after receiving a call from the ambulance service but there was nothing to suggest 'third party involvement' in his death.

Evidence read from GP Dr Carina Bonnici said that Mr Wilkinson had missed some appointments in the lead up to his death but staff at his GP surgery had spoken to him on the phone and he had said his mood was good and he was getting support with housing. A toxicology report found fatal levels of morphine in Mr Wilkinson's blood, which had come from heroin use.

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Mr Wilkinson's cause of death was listed as morphine/heroin toxicity. Recording a short form conclusion of a 'drugs related death', Ms Mutch said: "This is clearly a sad situation where a young man was found on May 3.

"It's clear from the evidence of DI Aunins that there was nothing suspicious about the death and no suggestion of third party involvement. Clear from the evidence of the toxicologist that there was a significant level of morphine within his system which in the view of the pathologist lead to his death.

"This is a tragic loss of a young life due to use of heroin and there is certainly nothing to suggest that he intended to die in the way he did."