Police re-examine four unexplained deaths at Cornwall homeless shelter
Devon and Cornwall Police are reviewing the sudden deaths of two men and two women at Sandy Lodge homeless shelter, while a convicted triple killer remains unrelated.
A team from Devon and Cornwall Police has launched a fresh review into four unexplained deaths—two male and two female—at the Sandy Lodge homeless shelter in Newquay, occurring from December 2024 to April 2025. Detective Superintendent Rachael Bentley explained that a separate detective inspector within the major-crime division is overseeing the review, commissioning additional forensic work, examining CCTV footage, and gathering fresh statements.
The investigation follows the recent conviction of 40-year-old James Desborough for three murders, including two killings at the same shelter and a cell-mate murder in Exeter Prison. Police have stressed that Desborough is not a suspect in the shelter deaths and that no connection has been identified so far. Initial inquiries suggested natural causes, but the coroner’s investigation was halted when Desborough was arrested, leading to the current re-examination. Authorities say the deaths remain unexpected and the probe is ongoing.
Why it matters
The review could reveal hidden foul play or systemic safety failures at a vulnerable community shelter.
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