Husband Stabs And Beats Wife To Death With Hammer In Tragic Murder-Suicide

A husband brutally murdered his wife before taking his own life in a shocking murder-suicide, an inquest revealed.

Richard Parks, 63, and his wife, Suratchanee “Lat” Parks, 53, were found dead in their home in Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

The inquest disclosed that Parks suffered severe stab wounds to his neck and was discovered holding a knife. Meanwhile, Lat was found in the bathtub with injuries indicative of strangulation, as reported by Kent Online.

Lat also sustained numerous knife wounds and had been struck with a hammer. Pathologist Dr. Virginia Fitzpatrick-Swallow testified that her injuries suggested she had fought back against her husband.

The court learned that the couple had met in Thailand, where Lat had a son, before relocating to the UK. Despite their marriage being described as “happy and without problems,” Parks had recently experienced anxiety due to a hefty tax bill from HMRC and was grappling with mental health issues, which delayed their planned move to Thailand.

On February 23, concerned family members visited their three-story home after failing to hear from them. Neighbors reported hearing “hysterical” screams upon discovering the bodies of Parks and Lat.

Police discovered blood stains throughout the kitchen, hallway, living room, and stairs. They also found a red folder containing a substantial amount of cash, as well as a chainsaw and pruning saw in the bathroom.

Detective Constable Jessica Summers stated that investigators concluded there was no involvement from any third parties in the incident.

Coroner Roger Hatch ruled that Lat had been unlawfully killed and confirmed that her husband had taken his own life.

Robert Parks, Richard’s brother, expressed his sorrow, stating, “This is an incredibly tragic situation. Only they know what truly transpired. They loved each other deeply, and he was looking forward to their move to Thailand. It’s a heartbreaking situation for both families.”