A brother and sister found dead in a flat in Thamesmead are believed to have been involved in a suicide pact, an inquest has heard. The bodies of Michelle Mileham, 51, and Gordon Mileham, 53, were discovered in Michelle’s home on Holstein Way, Buckwheat Court, earlier this year.
The pair were found on Tuesday, March 11, after concerns were raised by a social worker who had not seen Michelle in some time. Emergency services, including the London Ambulance Service and fire-brigade/" title="London Fire Brigade" rel="nofollow">London Fire Brigade, forced entry into the property, where the siblings were found deceased.
Post-Mortem Confirms Deaths from Stab Injuries
A post-mortem examination confirmed that both Michelle and Gordon died from stab wounds. The details were revealed during an inquest opened at South London Coroner’s Court in Croydon on Wednesday, April 30.
Detective Constable Benedict Harrington told the court:
“It would appear there was some sort of suicide pact between the two of them.”
The court also heard that Michelle had attempted suicide in July 2024 by overdosing on a pharmaceutical drug, which Gordon had helped procure. He reportedly also ingested a “large quantity” of the drug at the time.
DC Harrington added:
“We’re investigating the circumstances of their deaths as to whether this was another suicide attempt – him stabbing her then taking his own life, essentially.”
Police Investigation Continues
A knife was found at the scene, and police are currently awaiting toxicology results and a forensic examination of the weapon. While detectives are keeping an open mind, no evidence of third-party involvement has been identified so far.
Senior Coroner Sarah Ormond-Walshe formally opened and adjourned the inquest, allowing time for further police enquiries and forensic analysis.
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