A BABY’s death in Newton Abbot last summer was not suspicious, an inquest found.
The exact cause of little Jacob Smith’s death could not be established despite a forensic post-mortem examination.
The family home in Brownhills Road at Broadlands was the scene of intense speculation when police sealed off the area after the sad discovery of lifeless Jacob, aged just seven months, on June 15.
South Devon coroner Ian Arrow recorded an open conclusion after yesterday’s inquest in Torquay. The death was listed as Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy.
Pathologist Russell Delaney said the cause of death could not be ascertained. Examination revealed no evidence that anyone else was involved in the tragedy.
Paramedics responding to the 999 call found the baby was dead on arrival just before 10.30am. They drew police attention to bruise-like marks on the baby’s neck.
Jacob had been seen awake some five hours earlier.
Dr Delaney said there was nothing to suggest the marks were an injury.
Police, who confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances, told the hearing that Jacob’s father, Daniel, was arrested in connection with the incident - but bail was subsequently cancelled when it was decided the death was not a criminal matter.
Mr Arrow said the death must have come as a terrible shock to the parents.