A CHANNEL 4 star’s cause of death remains undetermined after he was found dead alongside his “murdered” girlfriend, an inquest heard today.
Paramedic Daniel Duffield, 24, and Lauren Evans, 22, were discovered at his home in Hednesford, Staffordshire, on June 25.
Police confirmed they are treating Lauren’s death as murder but are not looking for anyone else in connection with the horror.
An inquest today heard how Daniel’s cause of death remains “unascertained”.
Staffordshire Coroners Court was told the paramedic was identified by his dad following his death.
A full inquest was adjourned until a later date pending further reports.
Daniel appeared on the 11th series of Channel 4 show 999: On The Frontline, which followed West Midlands Ambulance Service workers.
Police were scrambled to his home in Hednesford following a call from Daniel’s paramedic colleagues.
The tragedy came just days after Daniel and Lauren snapped a photo together on a date.
Daniel’s crewmate and friend Ellie Johnson also revealed she had spoken to him “an hour” before his death to make plans to see each other.
Lauren’s devastated family paid tribute to the 22-year-old, who worked as a mental health nurse.
They said: “On June 25, 2024 we tragically, prematurely and unnecessarily had our beautiful daughter Lauren taken from us at the tender age of 22.
“Lauren was truly beautiful inside and out and will forever be in our memories.
“She was adored by her parents, younger sister, grandparents, family and friends because she was a gorgeous, soft natured, sweet girl whose smile would brighten even the darkest of days.
“Lauren’s thoughtful, caring and loving nature made her endearing to so many during her short life and she had so much more love to give and smiles to share with family and friends in the future.”
The family also told how “caring Lauren was about to embark on her new career, which she would have “excelled” at.
They added“A special person has been lost to so many who had the privilege to know her and to those who would have had the pleasure of meeting her in the future.
“We have lost a special daughter, with her sister, losing a loving companion and soul mate who wanted to share so many more experiences with Lauren.
“You were always loved, will always be in our memories and by our side and we will unconditionally love you forever Lauren.”
Staffordshire Police has referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after “recent police contact” with the pair.
Detective Superintendent Nicki Addison, from our Major Investigations Department, said: “This incident has understandably devastated the families and loved ones of those involved.
“We’d like to reiterate that the families have asked for their privacy to be respected at this tragic time. Please respect that. And again, we’d like to remind you that speculation is unhelpful and hurtful to the families and can hinder our investigation.”
“I’d like to thank everyone who has given us information. We expect the scene to be released once we’ve finished all of our investigative work and forensic examination.”
