Four Found Dead in Killamarsh House After Man Stabs Himself
Terri Harris and her two children, John Paul and Lacey Bennett, were found dead alongside Lacey’s friend Connie Gent at a home in Killamarsh on 19 September. Police were called after Damien Bendall was reported to have stabbed himself.
Police Arrive to a Horror Scene
Damien Bendall, 31, was arrested on suspicion of murder and has since been charged. Detective Inspector Graham Prince revealed that Derbyshire Police were alerted by Dorset Police at 7.26am on the day of the tragedy. Dorset had received a call from a relative concerned about Bendall’s safety, saying he had a self-inflicted stab wound.
Officers were sent to Chandos Crescent, Killamarsh, and met Bendall at 7.39am. Fearing for the safety of others in the house, police entered and discovered Terri Harris, 35, John Paul Bennett, 13, Lacey Bennett, 11, and Connie Gent, also 11 — all already deceased.
Victims’ Deaths Linked to Violent Acts
Paramedics confirmed the deaths on arrival. Coroner Peter Nieto said early post-mortem reports suggest the four died from “violent acts.” However, full reports are still awaited. The coroner suspended the inquests until after criminal proceedings conclude.
Legal Proceedings Underway
It emerged that Connie Gent had been staying at the house since 17 September to visit Lacey and her family. Bendall appeared at Derby Crown Court on Friday morning. A trial date was provisionally set for 1 March, with a review hearing scheduled for 26 November.
