A man has been convicted of manslaughter following the horrific death of Reanne Coulson in Coventry. Mohammed Durnion lured Reanne to his flat before launching a vicious attack. He then hid her body overnight, later burying her in a shallow grave.
Attack and Cover-Up in Coventry
On the night of 21 May last year, 42-year-old Durnion took 33-year-old Reanne Coulson to his flat on Paynes Lane, near Coventry city centre, just after 11.20pm. Within minutes, he attacked her. He concealed her body inside the flat until the early hours.
The next day, Durnion—along with friend Adam Moore—drove to Binley Woods. There, Durnion dug a shallow grave, with Moore either acting as lookout or assisting. Five and a half weeks later, Reanne’s remains were found, sparking a large police investigation.
Police Forced Entry to Disturbed Flat
Neighbours reported hearing screams from Durnion’s flat. Officers arrived swiftly, but heard nothing upon arrival. Durnion refused them entry, claiming a mental health crisis. Concerned for his welfare, police tried to persuade him to seek help, but he fled.
Once inside, officers found the flat in appalling conditions—no electricity, clutter everywhere, and a bucket serving as a toilet.
Cruel Reality and Emotional Breakthrough
Durnion eventually confessed while in custody. An emotional breakdown saw him lead detectives to Binley Woods where Reanne’s body was buried. Forensic tests revealed she had suffered head and neck injuries before death and was burned post-mortem.
Durnion admitted to using a large amount of cocaine that night but claimed Reanne died from an overdose. He also admitted ‘manhandling’ her. Both claims were rejected by the court.
Friend Found Guilty for Helping Cover-Up
Adam Moore, 39, was found guilty of assisting an offender. Phone records and soil samples confirmed his presence at the burial site. Police say Moore’s involvement stemmed from misplaced loyalty, choosing to aid Durnion instead of saving Reanne’s family from prolonged agony.
Both men await sentencing at Warwick Crown Court.
Family Plea and Police Statement
“Reanne was a devoted mother, loving daughter, and caring sister. She was beautiful and kind. Her warmth touched everyone she knew. We miss her every single day,” said Reanne’s family.
“We ask that Reanne is remembered for the vibrant person she was, not the tragic circumstances of her passing. We appreciate continued privacy as we navigate life without her.”
Detective Inspector Nigel Box from the homicide unit said: “This was a brutal attack on a defenceless woman. Durnion hid her body and continued his life while her family suffered. Thanks to the relentless investigation, justice has been served.”
Ongoing Efforts to Tackle Violence Against Women
West Midlands Police reaffirm their commitment to combating violence against women and girls. Officers continue targeted patrols in Coventry and across the region, working closely with support groups to keep women safe.
“The vast majority of men are horrified by such crimes and we will not tolerate violence in any form,” added DI Box.
