A man reported missing in Dorset has been found dead after being discovered unresponsive in the sea near The Needles, off the Isle of Wight.
The body of John Daniel Hession, 63, was recovered on July 23, approximately one nautical mile west of the well-known coastal landmark. He had been reported missing in Dorset before the discovery.
Mr. Hession, who was born in London on February 25, 1962, was living on Northbrook Road in the capital and working as a carer at the time of his death.
An inquest was officially opened on August 5 at Bournemouth Town Hall by the area coroner for Dorset, Brendan Allen. During the hearing, coroner’s officer Nicola Muller provided background details, confirming Mr. Hession’s identity and residence.
A postmortem examination carried out by Dr. Blahut at Holly Tree Lodge on August 4 listed the provisional cause of death as drowning. Police confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances or signs of third-party involvement.
Coroner Brendan Allen has adjourned the inquest to January 22, 2026, at 10 a.m., pending further information. He has requested statements from Mr. Hession’s family, general practitioner, local mental health services (if involved), and Dorset Police regarding their investigation.
Mr. Hession’s demise has prompted an outpouring of sympathy, and the investigation aims to provide clarity for his family and loved ones as they seek answers during this difficult time.
