Inquest into the disappearance and suspected death of Patrick KEAR

51y · Male·Unknown - no postmortem examination conducted, body not recovered

This coronial finding concerns Patrick Kear, a man reported missing in May 2016 but last seen alive on 11 January 2016. After extensive police investigation, the coroner found on the balance of probabilities that Patrick is deceased, having died sometime after 11 January 2016. While the place and cause of death could not be determined due to Patrick's body not being recovered and the absence of a postmortem examination, the coroner determined the manner of death was homicide. Key evidence included: Patrick's abandonment of a close relationship with his sister despite them remaining in contact; his unusual separation from his dog; the absence of any financial or 'signs of life' evidence since January 2016; and crucially, unauthorised withdrawals from his bank account by his housemate Terry Thompson between February and May 2016, coupled with evidence of deteriorating relationship between the two men and Thompson's suspicious denial of knowing Patrick's sister's name despite frequent prior contact. Thompson died in a motor vehicle accident in June 2016, preventing further investigation.