Nicola Bulley was a 45-year-old dog walker who went missing on January 27, 2021, after taking her two dogs for a walk along the River Wyre in St Michael’s on Wyre, Lancashire.
Her disappearance sparked a massive search operation involving police, divers, drones and volunteers.
But it took more than three weeks for her body to be found in the river, a mile away from where she was last seen.
Her death was initially shrouded in mystery and speculation.
Some people wondered if she had taken her own life, or if she had been attacked by someone.
Her husband Paul’s social media accounts were also hacked after her death, adding to the confusion and distress of her family and friends.
But after a two-day inquest at County Hall in Preston, the coroner Dr James Adeley has finally revealed the shocking truth behind Nicola Bulley cause of death: she died by drowning in a tragic accident.
How did Nicola Bulley die?
According to the evidence presented at the inquest, Nicola Bulley died as a result of drowning and was alive when she fell into the water.
She had no injuries or signs of assault on her body, and there was no evidence of any third-party involvement or foul play.
The most likely scenario, according to the coroner, was that she dropped her dog’s ball into the water and tried to retrieve it, but slipped and fell into the cold river.
The temperature of the water was about 4°C (39°F), which can cause a person to experience cold shock response.
This is a physiological reaction that can make a person gasp and inhale water, lose control of their breathing and heart rate, and drown within seconds.
The coroner said that Nicola Bulley did not have any mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, and that she had a happy and loving relationship with her husband.
He also praised the efforts of the police and the public who searched for her tirelessly.
He concluded that her death was accidental and said: “She did not have any desire to take her own life.
She was simply out walking her dogs on a cold winter’s day.”
How did Nicola Bulley’s family react?
Nicola Bulley’s family were present at the inquest and heard the coroner’s verdict.
They said they were relieved to finally know what happened to her, but they were still devastated by their loss.
Her husband Paul said: “She was my soulmate, my best friend, my everything. Always smiling and laughing. Loved animals and nature. She was kind and generous. She was the most beautiful person inside and out.”
He also thanked everyone who helped in the search for his wife, and said he hoped that her death would raise awareness of the dangers of cold water.
He said: “Please be careful around water. It can kill you in seconds. Don’t take any risks. Don’t let this happen to anyone else.”
Nicola Bulley’s mother, Christine, said: “She was my daughter, my friend, my confidante. Always there for me. So much to live for. She had so many plans for the future.”
She also urged people to be respectful of her daughter’s memory and not to spread rumours or false information about her death.
“Please don’t believe everything you read on social media. There are some nasty people out there who want to hurt us even more. Please don’t listen to them. Listen to the facts from the coroner. Listen to the truth.”
Nicola Bulley’s death shocked and saddened her community in St Michael’s on Wyre, where she lived with her husband and their two dogs, Poppy and Daisy.
She was well-known and well-liked by many people in the village, where she worked as a cleaner and volunteered at a local animal sanctuary.
After her body was found, hundreds of people paid tribute to her by laying flowers, cards and candles along the riverbank where she went missing.
A memorial service was also held at St Michael’s Church, where her family and friends shared their memories of her.
One of her friends, Sarah Jones, said: “She was such a lovely person. Had time for everyone. She always had a smile on her face. Loved walking her dogs along the river. She loved nature and wildlife. She will be missed by so many people.”
Another friend, Mark Smith, said: “She was a ray of sunshine in our lives. Brightened up our days with her jokes and stories. She was always helpful and generous. A true friend. We will never forget her.”
Conclusion
Nicola Bulley’s death was a tragic accident that took away a beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt and friend.
She died doing what she loved: walking her dogs along the river.
Nicola Bulley left behind a legacy of kindness, joy and love that will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
She was a beautiful soul who touched many lives. She will always be remembered. Rest in peace, Nicola Bulley.
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