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British Couple’s Deaths in France Ruled Murder-Suicide
French Authorities Conclude Investigation into Deaths of Andrew and Dawn Searle
French authorities investigating the deaths of a British couple at their residence in southwest France have concluded the incident was a murder-suicide. The case involves Andrew and Dawn Searle, formerly residents of East Lothian, Scotland, whose bodies were discovered at their property in Les Pequies, situated approximately one hour north of Toulouse. This tragic event has prompted a thorough examination by French law enforcement.
Discovery and Initial Findings
The remains of Andrew and Dawn Searle were discovered on February 6th. Dawn Searle’s body was located in the garden, exhibiting serious head injuries, whereas Andrew Searle’s body was found inside the house. The prosecutor overseeing the case has stated that initial evidence suggests no involvement of any third party in the couple’s deaths, pointing towards a tragic murder-suicide scenario.
Couple’s Background and Life in France
Dawn Searle, aged 56, was raised in Eyemouth, Scottish Borders, while Andrew Searle was originally from England. The couple previously resided in Musselburgh and were married in France in 2023. Legal authorities indicated that they had been living in the Aveyron area for five years. According to his LinkedIn profile, Andrew Searle, aged 62, had a background in financial crime prevention, having worked at companies such as Standard Life and Barclays Bank.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
Law enforcement was alerted to the incident in February by a neighbor who went to check on the couple after they did not appear for a scheduled dog walk. The area surrounding the residence was cordoned off for investigations, and local police requested specialist support from Toulouse. A helicopter and drone were deployed to the location to aid in the investigative efforts. Post-mortem examinations confirmed Andrew Searle’s cause of death as hanging, while Dawn Searle suffered “multiple blows to the head from a blunt and sharp-edged object”.
Family Statement
Dawn Searle’s son, Callum Kerr, an actor known for his role in Hollyoaks, released a statement on social media following the deaths. In his statement, Callum Kerr said, “During this time, Callum Kerr and Amanda Kerr are grieving the loss of their mother, Dawn Searle (née Smith, Kerr), while Tom Searle and Ella Searle are mourning the loss of their father, Andrew Searle.” He requested that the family’s privacy be respected during this “difficult period.” Callum Kerr, 30, had the honor of walking his mother down the aisle at her wedding to Andrew Searle in France in 2023.