Fraud probe after son kept father's body in house for months after death

A man is under investigation after his dad’s body was found in his house five months after he died. Guy Blackburn, 54, who lived at Alderfield, in Penwortham, Preston, had not been seen since last October, after his health deteriorated.

Neighbours said his son Christopher, 28, had repeatedly assured them his father was fine. But the residents eventually contacted Eaves Brook Housing Association, who own the house, after they became concerned.



Lancashire Police then visited the house, where they found Mr Blackburn’s body abandoned in the front room, which was being used a bedroom. Christopher, who lived with his dad, was arrested and questioned on suspicion of benefit fraud, as well as concealing the death. Mr Blackburn’s death itself is not being treated as suspicious by police.

The son has been released on police bail until July 15, while officers investigate whether his father was in receipt of any benefits, and whether the son falsely claimed his cash. Neighbours claim he had been left dead in the lounge for up five months, but police officers were unable to confirm the exact length of time, although they confirmed it was several months.