A COUPLE may have lain dead in their flat for up to two weeks before they were eventually discovered, an inquest heard today.
Police broke down the front door of Natalie Jones’ home in Hirwaun, Wales, to find her dead alongside partner Jonathan Williams.
The couple were discovered in a flat in Wales[/caption]
An inquest opening heard how mum Natalie, 39, had not been seen or heard from for two weeks before the discovery on Febuary 21.
Both hers and 47-year-old Jonathan’s deaths have been linked by police.
A post mortem was carried out but a provisional cause of death was given as “unascertained pending further investigation“.
The court in Pontypridd was told the couple were declared dead at the scene and identified by their fingerprints.
Coroner’s officer Louise Roberts said drug paraphernalia was present.
She added: “Police officers attended the address of Natalie Jones due to a concern raised by her family as they had been unable to make contact for two weeks.
“Officers forced entry and located Natalie alongside a male who was confirmed to be Jonathan Lee Williams.”
Coroner Kerrie Burge said full inquests would be held as there was “reason to suspect” their deaths were “unnatural”.
Natalie’s devastated family paid tribute to the mum following the horror.
They said: “Our family is heartbroken by the loss of Natalie.
“She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother and friend and was a warm, loving and compassionate person who brought joy and generosity to so many.
“She will forever be remembered.”
South Wales Police were called to the home in the high street at around 5.45pm.
They sealed off their flat following the discovery and confirmed a probe had been launched.
A spokesperson said: “Officers are investigating the unexplained deaths of two adults, a man and a woman, whose bodies were discovered at an address on Hirwaun High Street around 5.45pm on Friday, February 21.
“There is a cordon in place and additional police officers are in the area.
“Next of kin have been informed.
“Local residents are thanked for their patience while officers carry out their investigations.”
A full inquest will take place on a date to be set.
Natalie’s family have paid tribute[/caption]
