Barry Griffiths, 57, from Llandrindod Wells, Powys, Wales, tragically lost his life in July 2023 due to an unexpected kitchen accident. The peculiar details surrounding this event were unveiled during an inquest held at Pontypridd Coroner’s Court on September 16, 2024.
Concerns about Griffiths’ welfare were raised when he hadn’t been seen for over a week, leading to the discovery of his body in his assisted living home on July 4, 2023.
During the inquest, Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Rees provided a description of the scene: “The bottom drawer of the freezer had been left open and pulled forward in a position to access food items. On the work surface in the kitchen adjacent to the fridge freezer were two uncooked burgers, a knife, and a tea towel.”
The probe concluded that Griffiths, who had limited use of an arm due to a previous stroke, was likely trying to separate frozen burgers with a knife when the fatal accident occurred. The wound on his abdomen was at the same height as the work surface, lending credibility to this theory.
Initially, Detective Sergeant Stephen Vaughan categorized the death as unexplained rather than suicide. Griffiths’ personal possessions, including his cellphone, wallet, and computer, were found in their typical locations, indicating that no criminal activity had taken place.
The investigation was hindered due to a delay in securing the crime scene. It took over a month for the police to fully secure Griffiths’ apartment, leading to loss of potential evidence.
Despite these difficulties, investigators were able to reconstruct the events leading to Griffiths’ death. An autopsy showed that he had died from a sharp force injury, specifically a stab wound to the abdomen.
The police conducted a comprehensive investigation, including checks on Griffiths’ finances, digital devices, and CCTV footage from the surrounding area. They found no signs of forced entry, theft, or conflict, and analysis of Griffiths’ devices revealed no evidence of intent to self-harm or planning for his death. They also found no third-party involvement, suicide, or any other suspicious circumstances.
Area Coroner Patricia Morgan concluded that Griffiths’ death was most likely accidental, occurring while he was preparing frozen food. She recognized the distressing nature of the evidence and thanked everyone for their patience during the investigation. Morgan also extended her sincere condolences to Griffiths’ family, friends and acquaintances.
Griffiths was remembered by those who knew him as a “very private man.” He lived alone in supported accommodation, which may have contributed to the delay in finding his body.