A tragic incident of domestic violence shook the Epsom community when Epsom College headteacher Emma Pattison and her seven-year-old daughter Lettie were found dead, believed to have been shot by Emma’s husband, George Pattison, who then took his own life.
The inquest revealed heartbreaking details of the events leading up to the tragedy. Emma’s sister, Deborah Kirk, shared that Emma had called her on the night of the incident, expressing fear after George had hit her and their dog. Deborah and her husband rushed to Emma’s house but were stopped by George from entering, only to find a devastating scene inside.
Deborah described Emma as a light and kind-hearted person who brought positivity wherever she went, while Lettie was remembered as a smart and adorable child who brought joy to those around her. Deborah expressed her struggle to forgive George for his actions, acknowledging the pain he must have been going through.
The inquest also revealed that Emma had spent time with friends watching rugby before the tragedy unfolded, appearing to be in good spirits when she received a Chinese takeaway later that night. Post-mortem reports confirmed the cause of death for Emma, Lettie, and George as shotgun wounds, with George being under the influence of alcohol at a high level at the time of the incident.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of recognizing the signs of abuse. It highlights the need for support systems and resources to help individuals in abusive relationships seek help and find a way out before it’s too late.
As the community mourns the loss of Emma and Lettie, it’s essential to raise awareness about domestic violence, encourage open conversations about healthy relationships, and provide assistance to those in need. Together, we can work towards preventing such tragic events and creating a safer environment for everyone.
