Murder Charge Filed in West Mersea: Married Couple’s Death Shocks Community

Det Insp Lydia George, said: “This is a significant development in our investigation as we piece together the circumstances around the deaths of Carol and Stephen.”

Initially considered as “unexpected and not suspicious,” the deaths of the couple underwent a shift in investigation direction by the police following an extensive inquiry and toxicology analysis conducted during the post-mortem examination. The tests revealed that the couple had consumed the synthetic opioid drug fentanyl.

During a brief inquest hearing at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court, it was disclosed that Ms. Baxter’s cause of death was attributed to “combined fentanyl and promethazine toxicity with terminal bronchopneumonia.” Mr. Baxter’s cause of death was recorded as “cardiomegaly and alcoholic liver disease with fentanyl intoxication.”

The inquest was adjourned as the police investigation remains ongoing. The couple, who served as directors of Cazsplash, a company specializing in shower mats and bathroom accessories, met their tragic end due to fentanyl consumption.