In a recent inquest, it was revealed that David Toulson, a fraud prevention officer, died during a party at his apartment in Adelphi Wharf after celebrating his 40th birthday at a drag brunch with friends on June 25, 2022. A former prison officer, James Johnson, who was present, was cleared of murder and manslaughter charges in July 2023 at Manchester Crown Court.

During the trial, Johnson claimed he feared he had been drugged and believed Toulson was attempting to assault him when he restrained him in a 'guillotine' hold. He stated he held onto Toulson until it felt safe to let go.

However, Toulson's family expressed concerns during the inquest, urging the coroner to conclude that he sustained a "prolonged and vicious attack." Evidence revealed that Toulson had significant injuries, including extensive bruising around the neck, damage to the larynx, and eye hemorrhages. Compression on his neck, leading to asphyxia, was identified as the likely main cause of death, implying it needed to be sustained for several minutes.

During the proceedings, Marie Buckley, Toulson's sister, emphasized the brutality of the incident, stating, "A lot of the evidence that we have heard throughout this inquest was inadmissible in the Crown Court. I would like to thank you for giving me a voice and David a voice."

The court learned that Toulson also suffered a blunt force injury to the back of his head, resulting in nerve damage consistent with traumatic injury. Johnson recounted to the court that he 'blacked out or passed out' during the incident but didn't know how long he had been unconscious.

Following Toulson's death, Johnson informed the police that he had consumed a substance he thought was cocaine and felt unwell, leading him to the bathroom. He alleged that Toulson attempted to drag him from the bathroom into the bedroom for a sexual encounter.

In his submission, Johnson requested a conclusion of 'misadventure', suggesting Toulson's death was an unintended consequence of his actions. He acknowledged being suspended from his prison officer role due to multiple use of force incidents within a year.

The inquest revealed that the group had met at Toulson's flat before heading out and returned after being ejected from the bar for unruly behavior. Johnson described Toulson producing what was believed to be cocaine from the TV stand, a claim that was challenged by Toulson's sister during questioning.

Assistant Coroner Peter Sigee has adjourned the inquest, scheduling further hearings on November 22 to determine the conclusion of the case, emphasizing the need to consider all findings and available legal conclusions based on evidence presented.

The inquiry into Toulson's death continues as his family seeks justice and clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.