The loved ones of a man discovered deceased in a school playground have honored their “beloved son, brother, father, and friend.” Neil Thompson, also known as Chuck, was found at Smestow Academy in Wolverhampton. Authorities are treating his passing as unexplained.
In a heartfelt message, his grieving family expressed, “[Neil] touched numerous lives with his zest for life and amusing anecdotes. Chuck, our cherished son, brother, father, and friend, was deeply adored in the fishing community, his true passion. To aid our family in finding solace, we appeal to anyone with information or sightings to come forward.”
West Midlands Police has called on the public to share any details if they saw Chuck prior to his death.
According to reports, Mr. Thompson was spotted on Wheatsheaf Road, Wolverhampton, at 1 am on Monday and later seen on the school premises at 7:15 am. Authorities are encouraging individuals with information to cooperate as inquiries progress. He was last seen wearing a distinctive camouflage jacket, grey gilet, jeans, and a beanie hat, along with a red rucksack and possibly sunglasses.
Superintendent Martin Hurcomb of the police force mentioned, “Our teams are diligently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic event and extending support to Mr. Thompson’s family. We urge anyone who may have encountered Mr. Thompson in the early hours of the day to come forward. Neighbourhood officers are also available in the vicinity to address any concerns and offer reassurance.”
Smestow Academy was closed on Monday and Tuesday but is set to resume activities on Wednesday. School representatives clarified that the incident was unrelated to the institution and assured student assemblies will be held to provide reassurance.
A witness, a concerned parent who observed the unfolding events, recounted, “We were strolling leisurely when we noticed activity at the school. A teacher alerted others, mentioning a ‘major incident, public member discovered.’ Uncertainty lingered regarding the individual’s condition. Subsequently, it became apparent that he had passed away. The scene was unexpected, considering its picturesque nature.”
The West Midlands Ambulance Service reported responding to a medical emergency at Windmill Crescent, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton, where one individual was confirmed deceased.
Individuals with any information are urged to contact West Midlands Police at 101 or through Live Chat, referencing log 1452.