Deaths of mother and son, 9, found in property near Bodmin 'unexplained'

18 September 2024, 13:29 | Updated: 18 September 2024, 15:56

Relatives of a nine-year-old boy, found dead alongside his mother, have described him as a "cheeky chappy" who was adored, loved, and cherished.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the deaths of Tasmin Paterson, 31, and her son Hudson Paterson in the Fletchersbridge area of Bodmin are being "treated as unexplained".

They were confirmed dead on 7 September after emergency services responded to concerns for their welfare.

Detectives said they were not looking for anyone else and described it as an "isolated and very tragic incident".

Hudson's father has paid tribute to his son: "The grief we feel for the loss of a son, my son, stepson, nephew, and grandson cannot be understated.

"Hudson was a quiet but cheeky chappy, whose love for cars was as big as the love for his family and friends."

He added that Hudson was "adored, loved, cherished, and every day brought a smile to those that he loved and loved him".

"Hudson no longer being here is truly devastating for me as his dad and my family. It's soul destroying and the grief is unimaginable," he said.

'Our hearts are broken'

Ms Paterson's family have also paid tribute in a statement released via police: "Tasmin was very much loved and will be missed by those who loved her.

"Our hearts are broken to lose a daughter and a beautiful grandson, who was the light of our lives. Life will never be the same again."

Ms Paterson's partner said: "Tasmin had been a shining star who had left an overwhelming legacy of love and positivity on their lives and that they were privileged to have known her and would always continue to cherish her memory."

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Police have not issued any further details about the case as they continue to investigate what happened.

Detective Inspector Neil Blanchard said: "Tasmin and Hudson's deaths continue to be treated as unexplained and our enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what occurred.

"Our thoughts remain with their families and friends, and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time."

(c) Sky News 2024: Deaths of mother and son, 9, found in property near Bodmin 'unexplained'