Solitary Passing The Tragic Tale of Philip Worthington Lonely Demise. Solitary Passing The Tragic Tale of Philip Worthington Lonely Demise. Philip John Worthington met his end in solitary seclusion, and his demise only came to light when he ceased to collect his Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits.
A Hidden Demise Discovered
Philip Worthington, 57, was discovered deceased at his residence on Rawstorne Street in Blackburn on May 5 of this year. The DWP had raised concerns when he failed to claim his benefits, prompting his landlord to investigate. Upon arriving at the converted house of multiple occupancy, the landlord found Philip’s downstairs flat locked. After attempting entry, a grim discovery was made – Philip lay lifeless behind the locked door.
An Unusual Circumstance
At the subsequent inquest on September 7, Detective Inspector Darren Irving revealed that the police were initially called to the scene due to what appeared to be injuries on Philip’s body. However, these markings were later determined to be post-mortem changes, common after death.
Unfamiliar Kin
Surprisingly, the authorities had no information regarding Philip’s next of kin. There were vague reports of a sister residing in the Bolton area. Ultimately, Carol, his sister, was located thanks to a public appeal by the coroner.
A Distant Reunion
Carol informed Senior Coroner Dr. James Adeley that she had not seen her brother in 15 years. They had become separated as children, and she was unaware of his relocation from their hometown of Salford.
The Tragic Cause
Toxicology tests conducted posthumously revealed that Philip had fatally high levels of heroin in his system. Additionally, he had taken gabapentin, a prescribed drug for nerve pain, which enhances the effects of heroin and increases the likelihood of death. Over the past four years, Philip had been hospitalized four times due to accidental overdose. While his medical records mentioned suicidal thoughts, there was no evidence to suggest deliberate intent.
A Comforting Explanation
Dr. Adeley concluded that Philip’s death was drug-related but offered solace to Carol, explaining that her brother had likely “simply slipped into a warm sleep.”
A Documentary Peek
The inquest drew the attention of TV producers and film crew members shadowing Dr. Adeley for the upcoming second series of Channel 5’s documentary “Cause of Death.” This documentary aims to shed light on inquests and the coronial system, having first aired in October last year.
A Glimpse into the Past
After the inquest, Carol reminisced about her brother, describing him as “cheeky” during their youth, both being “born and bred in Salford.” She reflected on the 1960s, a time when social services differed significantly, and the siblings were separated, unaware of Philip’s subsequent move to Blackburn.