Man dies from chest injuries; inquest adjourned pending police probe
Franklin Francis, 56, suffered fatal injuries in an incident on Palmerston Road, Forest Gate, on November 25.
Incident → evidence → outcomeAn inquest into the death of Franklin Francis, 56, has been adjourned pending the outcome of a criminal investigation. Mr Francis died in hospital on November 27 after sustaining serious injuries in an incident on November 25. The Metropolitan Police had raised concerns over the circumstances of the injuries.
Inquest hears details of fatal injuries
Senior coroner Graeme Irvine heard at East London Coroner’s Court that Mr Francis, from Plaistow, was admitted to the Royal London Hospital on November 25 following a cardiac arrest. A CT scan revealed brain injuries and traumatic chest injuries, including a collapsed lung. Mr Francis died two days later. A post-mortem examination was conducted at East Ham Mortuary. The cause of death was determined to involve 'third party compression of the thorax'.
Police investigation ongoing
The Metropolitan Police were called to Palmerston Road in Forest Gate at 3.52pm on November 25 following reports of a fight. Officers found Mr Francis unresponsive. Two men, aged 56 and 24, were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm. Both remain on bail as the investigation continues. Inquest proceedings have been adjourned pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.
Mr Francis' family described him as 'a loving member of the family whose kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew him'. They added: 'His absence leaves a void that can never be filled. We will miss him dearly every single day.'
Questions this report answers
01How did Franklin Francis die?
Franklin Francis, 56, died in hospital on November 27 from traumatic chest injuries, including a collapsed lung, and brain injuries. The cause of death was determined to involve 'third party compression of the thorax' following an incident on November 25.
02What is the current status of the police investigation?
Two men, aged 56 and 24, were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm in connection with the incident. They currently remain on bail, and the Metropolitan Police investigation is ongoing.
03What happens next with the inquest?
The inquest into Mr Francis' death has been adjourned. Senior coroner Graeme Irvine stated that proceedings will resume pending the outcome of the criminal investigation being conducted by the Metropolitan Police.
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