The recent inquest into the death of John Cannan, a convicted rapist and murderer, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding his passing. Cannan, who was serving time for the rape and murder of Bristol newlywed Shirley Banks in 1989, was also the main suspect in the disappearance of Suzy Lamplugh in 1986. Suzy went missing at the age of 25 after leaving her office to meet a client for a viewing and was never found.
Despite being questioned about Suzy’s disappearance, Cannan was never charged in connection with the case. In 2018, police conducted searches at his mother’s former residence but did not uncover any evidence. Suzy’s family expressed their frustration at never finding closure or knowing the whereabouts of her body.
Cannan, who maintained his innocence in Suzy’s case, passed away at the age of 70 in prison. The inquest revealed that he died from a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. The hearing, presided over by Area Coroner Lorraine Harris, lasted five minutes and confirmed the details of Cannan’s death.
The tragic events surrounding Cannan’s life and crimes have left many unanswered questions and unresolved pain for the victims’ families. Despite his death, the memories of his heinous acts continue to haunt those affected by his actions. The search for justice and closure in these cases remains ongoing, with the hope of eventually finding peace for those impacted by these tragedies.
