An elderly man, aged 80, who had been reported missing, was tragically discovered deceased in the water at a beach, as revealed during an official inquest.
Paul Fearns, a retired individual, had ventured out for a stroll on September 28. Concern arose when he did not return home, prompting a search that led to the unfortunate discovery of his body on a beach near Simouth.
At a brief public hearing held at Exeter County Hall on January 20, senior coroner Philip Spinney initiated the inquest into the death of Mr. Fearns. Spinney disclosed that Paul, originally from Sidmouth, had lived on Brewery Lane in Sidmouth and was married. He had worked as a carpenter before retiring.
The circumstances surrounding Paul’s demise were detailed by Spinney, who stated that he was reported missing on the evening of September 28, 2025, after failing to return from his walk.
The following day, a member of the public found Paul deceased in the water at Ladrum Bay, near Otterton. The cause of death was determined to be immersion in seawater, with ischemic heart disease listed as a contributing factor.
Numerous agencies were involved in the response on the morning of September 29, including officers from Exmouth and Rural East Devon patrols, Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Search & Rescue Teams, Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat, the Coastguard helicopter, and South West Ambulance Service.
The authorities confirmed that Paul was recovered by a Sidmouth lifeboat near rocks and brought to the beach, where he was pronounced deceased. The seafront was temporarily closed to facilitate emergency services’ access to the scene.
In a statement at the time, Exmouth Police acknowledged the recovery of the body and extended condolences to the man’s family.
The inquest was adjourned by Spinney, with a full investigation scheduled for a later date.
