Richard Brinkmann died from fatally self-harming, court told

The body of Richard Brinkmann, of Vicarage Road in Great Hockham, near Thetford, was found at his home by his brother on May 27, 2023. 

An inquest into the 70-year-old's death heard how he was discovered after loved ones became concerned when they had not heard from him for a couple of weeks. 

Mr Brinkmann died in his bed and was found with a fatal stab wound, a knife, and a suicide note. 

Johanna Thompson, assistant coroner, accepted the note as intent to take his life. 

Norfolk Coroner's Court (Image: Newsquest)

Evidence read out at Norfolk Coroner’s Court on April 3, heard that Mr Brinkmann had a long history of mental ill health dating back to 1999. 

His brother, Christian, said he had been unwell “for a long time” which he had noticed while helping him to obtain food deliveries. 

Summing up ahead of her conclusion, Ms Thompson said: “The evidence indicates how Richard had suffered from physical pain following a hernia operation undertaken several years previously. 

“His brother also alluded to him being unwell for a long time.” 

The Norwich-based court was also told about how he had contacted Social Services complaining of severe pain and was advised to call the ambulance service. 

He had also admitted to feeling “very lonely” and had been sent information by them about a befriending service. 

Following a mental health assessment in March 2023, he was deemed full capacity and denied plans to take his life. 

At the time, he was noted to be vulnerable but was not deemed a suicide risk. 

Ms Thompson recorded that Mr Brinkmann, formerly of Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, died by suicide. 

• Do you need support? Samaritans can be contacted 24/7 on 116 123. The NHS First Response Service can be reached on 111 selecting option 2. 
• To pay tribute to a loved one, email norfolkobituaries@newsquest.co.uk  
• To read all obituaries and tributes join the Facebook group Norfolk's Loved & Lost.