Man Killed While Putting Out Bins During Horrific Storm in Devon
A 93-year-old man died after being knocked over by strong winds while taking out his rubbish during Storm Darragh in Devon
Devon, Storm Darragh, Harold Elford, Bronchopneumonia, Weather
Devon: A sad story unfolded when a 93-year-old man lost his life after being knocked over by a fierce gust of wind while putting out his rubbish bin during Storm Darragh.
Harold Elford, a lifelong resident of Ivybridge, was taken to Derriford Hospital after the incident on December 7, 2024. Unfortunately, he passed away three weeks later on December 28.
An inquest was recently held at Exeter Coroners Court. It revealed that Mr. Elford was a widower and had worked as a paper mill dryer.
Senior coroner Philip Spinney shared the details, explaining that Mr. Elford was outside his home during the storm when a strong wind knocked him down. He managed to call for help from his neighbors.
After being taken to the hospital, he developed bronchopneumonia. Despite the medical care he received, he sadly didn’t make it.
The cause of death was determined to be bronchopneumonia from the fall, along with other health issues like advanced frailty and heart disease.
The inquest has been put on hold for a more detailed hearing later on.
Storm Darragh hit parts of England and Wales with powerful winds on December 6 and 7. The Met Office even issued a red warning for wind in West Wales and the Bristol Channel, with gusts reaching up to 81 mph or more.
Heavy rain also fell in the region, and Berry Head in Devon recorded a staggering gust of 96 mph, marking the highest December gust speed in 30 years.