Inquest opened into Wiltshire firefighter’s death after ‘chemical exposure’

The coroner has opened an inquest into the death of a Wiltshire firefighter.

Emergency services were called to an address in Durrington at around 1.30pm on 18 August after concerns were raised about the welfare of a man.

31-year-old Dean Hardy, who was a serving firefighter based at Amesbury Fire Station, was pronounced dead in a garage attached to a dwelling.

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Hazardous material protocols were followed by first responders attending the incident, who suspected his death may have followed ‘chemical exposure’.

Wiltshire and Swindon Coroner’s Court heard that a cause of death is yet to be ascertained. The inquest was adjourned to a date to be fixed.

“There are no suspicious circumstances, and our thoughts are with his family”, a spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said.

Dean’s funeral will be held at Salisbury Crematorium at 10am on Wednesday 27 September, with all those who knew him welcome to attend.

Shortly after Dean’s death, Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, the sudden passing of one of our colleagues.

Firefighter Dean Hardy from Amesbury fire station passed away on Friday 18 August at his home.

“I speak on behalf of the entire Service when I say that we are all shocked and saddened by this news, and our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

“Dean joined Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service in March 2023 and was a dedicated and highly valued member of our Service.

“He brought with him significant experience from his primary employment as an MoD firefighter.

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