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Coroner Rules 2008 Chainsaw Death of Hampshire Tenant a Deliberate Suicide

The coroner said David Phyall sought to draw attention to what he saw as an injustice over his eviction.

Overview

  • An inquest concluded with a verdict of suicide in the 2008 death of David Phyall, 50, in Bishopstoke, Hampshire.
  • The cause of death was recorded as a complete transection of the neck from a chainsaw wound.
  • Coroner Simon Burge said Phyall planned the act carefully and intended to highlight a perceived injustice.
  • First Wessex Housing Group had offered 11 alternative homes as the 1960s block was set for demolition, and repossession proceedings were under way.
  • Police entered the flat on July 5 after his parents raised concerns; testimony noted his mental‑health history and a small amount of alcohol in his system.