An inquest has been opened into the death of Linda Louise Latimer, 59, found dead in Eastfield Gardens on April 2.
Family Identify Woman at Scene
Mrs Latimer’s body was identified by family members at the scene. Police were called but couldn’t immediately find her cause of death. A post-mortem was ordered by East London Senior Coroner Graeme Irvine.
Autopsy Reveals Toxic Mix
At a hearing on June 30, Mr Irvine revealed initial autopsy results were inconclusive. Toxicology tests later showed a deadly cocktail of alcohol and six other substances in her system, including painkillers, an antidepressant, an antihistamine, and a Class A drug.
Her death also involved chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hepatic stenosis, a type of liver disease, both likely factors in her demise.
“Given those circumstances, I will open an inquest. It seems to me that this is an unnatural death,” said Mr Irvine.
Family Given Role in Investigation
The court has named Mrs Latimer’s relatives “interested persons” under coronial law. This lets them review evidence and question witnesses before the final hearing.
The family must submit a detailed statement about events before Mrs Latimer was found unresponsive and highlight any concerns.
Inquest Details and Next Steps
- Coroner has ordered a check of Mrs Latimer’s GP records and any mental health or addiction service contacts.
- Police and ambulance reports are being gathered.
- The full inquest is set for January 2026.
