Inquest: Tributes paid to 'kind' dad Charlie Knight who went missing

Charles 'Charlie' Knight, 30, went missing in February 2021 as he left his mum Belinda Hooper’s home in Burghclere, telling her he would not be gone long.

But an hour later, he had not returned, prompting her to call his brother and later notify the police.

Hampshire Constabulary categorised the case as high-risk, launching extensive searches in Newtown Forest and other areas connected to him, with family, friends, and volunteers from Hampshire and Berkshire Search and Rescue joining in the effort.

Charles 'Charlie' Knight READ MORE: What happens at an inquest and what can the press report?

Over the following weeks and months, the community rallied around the family, and a Facebook group was created to track possible sightings.

Despite multiple leads, no solid information about Mr Knight’s whereabouts emerged.

The case received national attention, and his story was featured on Channel 5’s Vanished.

On August 9, 2023, more than two years after he went missing, Mr Knight’s remains were found by a man hunting deer in a woodland south of Burghclere. The remains were formally identified and his family was informed.

At an inquest, held in Winchester on Tuesday, October 29, Coroner Nicholas Walker concluded that it was likely to have been suicide. 

Charlie was a very kind and funny man, according to his family

READ MORE: Timeline of missing man Charlie Knight after his body is found in wood

Mr Walker referenced Mr Knight’s history of depression, noting that he had spoken to a friend and had received some medical attention in January 2021, five weeks before he went missing.

Despite the support from his family, Mr Knight’s mental health had been in decline, and he had exhibited symptoms of severe depression, isolation, and unresolved grief over his father’s passing seven years prior.

Mr Walker noted that Mr Knight left without any identifying documents, phone, wallet, or passport on the day he went missing.

“I’m satisfied he did intend to take his life,” Mr Walker said, and officially ruled the death a suicide by hanging.

Statements from Mr Knight’s GP and consultant psychiatrist Denzel Mitchell also detailed his struggles.

In a heartfelt tribute at the inquest, his mother described Mr Knight as a “very compassionate” and “funny” person, known for his over-the-top laughter and caring nature.

She shared memories of his dedication to his children, now 12 and 8, and his love for surfing, sports, and spending time with family.

The family said the depression he struggled with was only “five percent of him,” a side that did not define who he was.

Search and rescue scouring forest near Newtown Common for missing Charlie Knight SEE ALSO: 'Truly loved': Body of man missing since 2021 found in woodland

Mr Knight's family said they had shared lingering questions and frustrations about how his body had gone undetected in a public woodland area frequented by dog walkers for so long.

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