A coroner has heard that a couple found dead inside their campervan after attending a cider festival died from poisoning.
Festival Visit Ends in Tragedy
Kayleigh Coll, 38, and Chris Coll, 45, were discovered deceased inside their vehicle on Pound Lane in Burley, Hampshire. The discovery was made on Sunday, October 12, shortly after midday. The couple had been at the nearby New Forest Cider Festival.
At a hearing at Winchester Coroner’s Court, Area Coroner Nicholas Walker was told the preliminary cause of death for both was carbon monoxide toxicity. The inquest heard that a gas heater was found inside their caravan.
A Family Left Heartbroken
The couple, from Blandford Forum, leave behind four children: Shyla, Alex, Kaizer, and Emily. Their sudden deaths have left family and friends devastated.
A GoFundMe page set up to support the children, who are now living with relatives, has raised more than £30,000. In a heartfelt tribute on the page, loved ones described Kayleigh and Chris as "soul mates" whose love for each other was "beautiful."
Kayleigh was remembered as "the most selfless, thoughtful person," while Chris was described as an "amazing man and father" with a "warm, gentle and kind soul." The family stated that the couple's shared values made them a perfect match.
In an update, the fundraiser organisers explained that the goal was increased to help with the children's ongoing needs, including adaptations to family homes and vehicles.
Inquest Adjourned for Further Investigation
Coroner Nicholas Walker has adjourned the full inquests until July 22, 2026, to allow for further investigation into the circumstances.
Police have described the deaths as "unexpected" but confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances. A spokesperson for New Forest Cider expressed deep sadness at the tragedy and confirmed the incident occurred in a private vehicle and was not connected to the festival event itself.
The community continues to mourn the loss of the couple, with one friend posting online: "The only solace in this whole thing is that you went together, peacefully."
