Tragic Deaths of Two Teenagers at Bridlington Holiday Park
Two teenagers are suspected to have died from carbon monoxide poisoning while staying in a cabin known as the 'man cave' at a country park near Bridlington. The heartbreaking incident occurred during a family holiday at Little Eden Country Park in Carnaby, with the coroner describing the deaths as both tragic and unexpected.
Details of the Fatal Evening
Cherish Bean, aged 15, and Ethan Slater, aged 17, had been enjoying a family holiday when they decided to watch television together in a smaller cabin separate from the main family accommodation. The cabin, referred to as the 'man cave' and officially designated as Cabin 31, became the scene of the devastating tragedy.
According to evidence presented at the inquest opening in Hull, Cherish returned to the main cabin approximately fifty minutes after leaving, complaining of a headache to her mother. She was given Calpol since the family had no paracetamol available, then returned to Cabin 31 where she sent a final text message to her mother saying 'goodnight' and expressing her love.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Humberside Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, with detectives focusing on potential gross negligence manslaughter involving carbon monoxide poisoning. Officers have removed a boiler from Cabin 31 for forensic examination as part of their inquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Ben Robinson informed the coroner that police have made four arrests in connection with the case. All suspects are associated with the management and maintenance of Little Eden Country Park. A 41-year-old man arrested on March 2nd has been released on bail, while three other men aged 27, 33, and 42 remain on conditional bail as the investigation continues.
Family Tributes and Community Response
The families of both teenagers have paid emotional tributes to their lost children. Cherish's mother described her daughter as 'my perfect girl, my angel' and expressed how the family has been left broken by the tragedy. She also spoke fondly of Ethan, saying she loved him like her own and describing him as a good boy with a kind heart.
Ethan's family established an online fundraising page that has raised nearly £20,000, with heartbreaking messages about the promising young life cut short. The tribute noted that Ethan would never celebrate his 18th birthday, pass his driving test, or reach the milestones his family had anticipated for him.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Senior coroner Paul Marks has formally opened inquests into the deaths of both Ethan Harry Slater and Cherish Adele Bean, extending his condolences to their grieving families. The inquests have been adjourned pending completion of the police investigation, with the final medical cause of death awaiting confirmation from forensic pathologists.
Police continue to gather evidence from witnesses who have stayed at the holiday park, particularly those who have occupied Cabin 31, known colloquially as the 'man cave'. The investigation has sought guidance from the National Crime Agency regarding cases involving carbon monoxide poisoning and potential gross negligence manslaughter.
The tragic incident has highlighted the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning in holiday accommodations and raised serious questions about safety standards at recreational facilities. As the investigation progresses, both families await answers about the circumstances that led to the loss of their beloved teenagers during what should have been a joyful family holiday.
