Dozens traced in death inquiry
Detectives investigating the death of Shropshire father-of-two Kevin Whitrick have traced nearly 100 people who watched him apparently commit suicide on the internet.
Mr Whitrick was seen hanging from the ceiling through his web camera, by people talking to him on the Paltalk chatroom.
The horrified web users phoned police to tell officers where Mr Whitrick lived. Officers broke down the door to his flat but were unable to revive him.
Today Sarah Warren, spokeswoman for Telford police said: "Detectives leading the investigation have traced most of the people in the chatroom.
"Nobody has been charged and no arrests have been made. The inquest is expected to be opened later this week."
Yesterday police revealed that detectives and crown prosecutors are to consider criminal charges over the apparent suicide. Miss Warren added: "The team of detectives are still expecting to speak to the Crown Prosecution Service."
Today Mark Pritchard, Wrekin MP said: "I'll be writing to ministers about reviewing the 1961 Suicide Act to incorporate activity on the internet, including chat rooms and websites."
Tributes have poured in to the Paltalk chatroom and the Shropshire Star website since his death on Wednesday.
