Elton man found dead next to shotgun

Apr 19 2011 by David Holmes, Chester Chronicle

A 65-YEAR-old man was found dead in the upstairs of his home after a shotgun was discharged as his wife was downstairs.

The incident, which happened in School Lane, Elton, about 10.30am on Tuesday, was reported by the distressed woman.

It is believed the retired gentleman has been depressed. Paramedics and police attended, including firearms officers, who made sure the firearm was safe.

A police spokeswoman said: “A firearm had been discharged at the location. There were no other persons involved, no injury to any other person other than the deceased and at no point did the male leave the grounds of his own property.”

She added: “There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident and the deceased’s next of kin have been informed. A coroners file will be prepared.”