A man with four children tragically passed away due to an explosion at his residence, leaving a heartfelt note for his niece, as revealed in a recent inquest. Stuart Cooper, aged 49, sustained severe injuries during the incident on Pendennis Road in Penzance on April 23, 2025. The inquest, convened in Truro, disclosed that Mr. Cooper had been grappling with mental health challenges for several years, having previously expressed thoughts of self-harm.
The deceased had previously survived a similar explosion in his home in 2019, resulting in significant burns and enduring multiple surgeries, causing him substantial pain. During the inquest, Mr. Cooper’s niece, Emily Cooper, shared that she only discovered later that the 2019 episode might have been a suicide endeavor. She fondly remembered her uncle, whom she affectionately referred to as “dad,” as a devoted Tottenham Hotspur enthusiast who possessed a vibrant personality and a great sense of humor.
Emily Cooper elaborated on her uncle’s mental health struggles, noting fluctuations in his emotional well-being over time. Despite having a wide circle of friends, his mental state had deteriorated in the weeks leading up to his demise. Following Mr. Cooper’s passing, Emily received a package from a neighbor containing a final note and important documents as per his instructions. She expressed deep admiration for her uncle, emphasizing his resilience and positive attributes even during challenging times.
During the inquest proceedings, an officer who responded to the scene recounted being summoned by the fire service following reports of an explosion at the residential complex where Mr. Cooper resided. Despite collaborative efforts from various agencies, Mr. Cooper was airlifted to Derriford Hospital with extensive burns covering 92% of his body. Tragically, medical professionals deemed his chances of survival slim, leading to the decision to withdraw life support, resulting in his passing that same evening.
Subsequent investigations by Cornwall Fire Service and gas engineers determined no gas leaks or safety concerns within Mr. Cooper’s premises at the time of the incident. The detective constable overseeing the case stated that after a thorough review, no indications of external involvement or suspicious circumstances were found. Based on evidence such as the final note to Emily Cooper and a Facebook video shared before his demise, it was deduced that Mr. Cooper had likely intended to end his life.
Following a comprehensive examination of the facts and expert reports, Assistant Coroner for Cornwall and the Isle of Scilly, Emma Hillson, acknowledged the fire investigator’s assessment attributing the explosion to Mr. Cooper himself. Considering his history of mental health struggles, previous signs of suicidal ideation, and the content of the final note and video, Ms. Hillson concluded that, with a high degree of certainty, Mr. Cooper had taken his own life intentionally.
For those in need of emotional support, the Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 by calling 116 123, emailing jo@samaritans.org, visiting a local branch, or accessing their website.