Chilling Bodycam Footage Reveals Killer's Callous Admission to Paramedics
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, an unofficial carer told emergency responders that a disabled man's body had been lying in a bedroom for approximately twelve days before being discovered. Jason Trundle, 52, was convicted of murdering Leon Pratt, 64, and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 19 years at Worcester Crown Court on April 10, 2026.
Gruesome Discovery in Telford Home
Leon Pratt's decomposing body was found wrapped in a duvet on his bed at his home in the Hollinswood area of Telford, Shropshire, on October 26, 2024. Concerned neighbors had alerted authorities after not seeing the wheelchair-dependent man for several weeks, prompting a welfare check that uncovered the horrific scene.
Bodycam footage released by West Mercia Police captured the moment paramedics arrived at the property, with one responder remarking about a foul odor before entering. Once inside, Trundle pointed toward a closed bedroom door and calmly stated: "In there. He's been dead about 12 days."
Killer's Disturbing Behavior and Statements
When questioned by paramedics about why he hadn't reported the death, Trundle responded: "Nobody knows I'm here, I don't have any money, I've gotta look after that dog. So where am I gonna go and what am I gonna do?" He initially claimed Mr. Pratt had died naturally, stating "I didn't kill him. He just died," but refused to answer further questions.
The trial revealed Trundle had moved in with Mr. Pratt after meeting through social media approximately eighteen months earlier. Prosecutors described him as an "unofficial carer" who provided day-to-day assistance to Mr. Pratt, who suffered from multiple health conditions requiring mobility aids.
Financial Exploitation and Attempted Cover-Up
Evidence presented during the trial showed Trundle had committed fraud by using Mr. Pratt's bank card at local shops while the victim lay dead in the home. He also admitted to preventing a lawful burial in addition to the murder conviction.
A post-mortem examination revealed Mr. Pratt had suffered significant injuries to his back, ribs, and neck, contradicting Trundle's claims of natural death. The victim's last known activity was on September 27, 2024—the same day his car was last used—indicating he had been deceased for nearly a month before discovery.
Police Investigation and Community Impact
Detective Inspector Joanne Delahay of West Mercia Police commented on the case: "Leon clearly trusted Jason with his life, and he took that away from him. We welcome the jury's decision and are thankful that Leon's family only had to wait another day for Trundle to be sentenced. I hope it brings some closure to Leon's family and those who knew him."
Neighbors in the Downmeade area had grown concerned in late September 2024 when Mr. Pratt disappeared from view, ultimately dialing 999 to report their worries. Paramedics noted a putrid smell resembling rotting flesh emanating from the property upon their arrival.
The case highlights vulnerabilities in informal care arrangements and the tragic consequences when trust is betrayed. Trundle initially faced manslaughter charges but was convicted of murder by jurors after a thorough examination of the evidence, including the damning bodycam footage that captured his nonchalant admission to emergency responders.
