Northamptonshire Police have dropped a murder investigation into the death of Robert Brown, 57, after a coroner ruled his stabbing death was a tragic accident. Brown was found slumped over a blood-soaked bench in Northampton, England, on Aug. 1, 2025.
Investigators initially suspected foul play and had arrested three individuals in connection with the death, but they were later released. A review of the evidence, including forensic submissions, led police to conclude that the death was not a homicide. "We have reviewed the extensive amount of information gathered as part of the investigation, including all forensic submissions, and can confirm the evidence does not support the hypothesis that his death was a homicide," police stated in February.
Authorities believe Brown, who had a history of alcohol dependence, fell into a deep sleep while sitting on a bench. While asleep, he lost his balance and fell onto a knife he was carrying in his bag. The blade penetrated his bag, his clothing, and ultimately his arm, leading to fatal blood loss.
Experts at a court hearing noted that Brown's alcoholism made him more vulnerable to blood loss. Police found no apparent motive for murder. The murder inquiry was officially dropped in February, with investigators suggesting the death was likely self-inflicted.