Sad news from Cyprus: David Hunter, a British expat known for his involvement in a controversial manslaughter case, has passed away in hospital. Hunter, 78, was found guilty in 2023 of the manslaughter of his terminally ill wife, Janice, who he suffocated at their home in Tremithousa, near Paphos, in December 2021. The case sparked global debate on mercy killings.
His daughter, Lesley Cawthorne, confirmed that Hunter died suddenly after hospitalisation for a urinary tract infection. After serving a two-year prison sentence, he continued to live in Cyprus to be near Janice’s grave. Hunter, a former coal miner from Ashington, Northumberland, had faced declining health after his release.
Janice, 74, had been battling terminal blood cancer and had reportedly begged him for help in ending her life, according to the trial proceedings. The tragedy and subsequent trial captivated worldwide attention and stirred conversations on end-of-life choices.
In a bid for justice, Cyprus’ attorney general had sought to appeal the manslaughter verdict and sentencing, with further court proceedings underway. Following the incident, Hunter had tried to take his own life but was found by police after alerting family members via Interpol.
Lesley, from Norwich, expressed her gratitude for the support the family has received, saying, “We are devastated and the support over the last few years has meant the world to us.”
The Hunters had been together for 52 years and moved to Cyprus in 2002. David’s commitment to remain near his wife’s final resting place reveals the depth of their bond, even amidst complex circumstances. Our thoughts are with their family during this time of loss.