Mother Katherine Hooper Dies With Son Josh Falling From Rocks On Dartmoor, Devon

Mother Katherine Hooper Dies With Son Josh Falling From Rocks At Dartmoor

Police have launched an investigation following the deaths of a mother and her son at Dartmoor and the discovery of a second child at the family's home.

The 24-year-old woman, named in reports as Katharine Hooper, and her five-year-old son Joshua Patterson died after falling from rocks at Haytor in Devon - one of Dartmoor's most famous landmarks which is popular with walkers and climbers.

The body of a two-year-old Samuel Patterson was later found at her home address in Dukes Close, Paignton.

Devon and Cornwall Police said they have launched a murder investigation led by the force's major crime investigation team.

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The mother and son died after falling from rocks at Haytor in Devon

Detective Superintendent Paul Burgan said: "We are keeping an open mind about all three deaths, but at this stage we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who may have any information or might have been in the Haytor area earlier today, Friday."

An air ambulance, a police helicopter and members of the Dartmoor Rescue Group were called to the scene at 11.50am.

Neighbour Tracey Cole, told the Western Morning News: "The whole community is feeling utterly shocked and devastated. This is a close knit community. We always looked after each other especially because of the kids. With Kat we were always in and out of each other's houses. We would see each other every day.

"I really don't understand what happened. Kat was totally and utterly devoted to her children."

The Dartmoor National Park Authority asked members of the public to avoid visiting the area due to the tragedy.

Tributes were paid to the mother and child by members of the emergency services.

The Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team tweeted: "The team were called to assist at a tragic incident at Haytor.

"Our thoughts are with the family."

Post-mortem examinations are due to take place and next of kin have been informed, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101, quoting log 316 of 120713.