Inquest reopens into the death of Michelle Hodgkinson, 51, after Paul Hughes, who stabbed her, was given a hospital order.
Hughes, age 30, was charged with murder, and a jury determined he caused her death. However, they found him unfit for trial due to paranoid schizophrenia, leading to him being sent to a hospital.
An inquest into her death was initially opened but then halted because of the criminal case. Following the conclusion of the court case, the coroner will now reopen the inquest.
The coroner intends to examine the care Hughes received, particularly the period leading up to the attack. Michelle’s family supports reopening the inquest, seeking answers regarding his care.
Rita Wilkinson from the police coroner’s office has communicated with Michelle’s family. They seek answers to questions about the duty of care provided, and support the inquest for this reason.
Coroner Chris Morris believes the inquest is necessary to examine areas a trial would not, including Mr. Hughes’ care before the event. A public hearing, he stated, can provide broader scrutiny.
Hughes purchased a knife at Asda just 40 minutes before the attack. Michelle walked past him en route to meet her mother. Hughes then attacked her with the knife and threw it over a fence.
Police arrested him shortly after the incident. A jury concluded that he unlawfully killed Michelle. Medical evidence indicated he was unfit for trial, which led to the jury’s decision.
Dr. Olivia Tappin, who treated Hughes at a hospital, reported that he was taking a high dose of Clozapine. Her report also mentioned his psychosis symptoms.
Michelle’s family deeply mourns her loss, describing her as loving, selfless, and very funny. She was a wonderful daughter and mother who consistently helped people in her community.
She also volunteered and engaged in charity work, creating hampers to bring joy to others. On the day of her death, she had been helping her mother; her family’s world has been shattered.
The family expresses their gratitude for the love and support they’ve received. They urge others to hold their loved ones close, express their love, and create lasting memories. Michelle will forever be remembered by them.
Another inquest hearing is scheduled for April 15. The coroner has requested the attendance of several parties, including Greater Manchester Mental Health, North West Ambulance Service, and Hughes’s GP.