Inquest into death of Stephen Fisher and Carla Couperthwaite

Carla Couperthwaite, 26, of Rostherne Gardens, Deane, and her brother Stephen Fisher, 33, of Thornfield Close, were found deceased at Carla’s home , on September 6, after taking “illicit drugs” with another person.

During the inquest opening, the medical cause of death for Stephen and Carla was given as combined drug toxicity, following a postmortem.

Area Coroner Peter Sigee said: “I am satisfied that it is appropriate for me to combine these two inquests together.

“As I understand the two individuals were found dead in the home at the same time.”

Police Coroners Officer Andrew Pickles said: “There has been a police investigation into Miss Couperthwaite’s death and there are no suspicious circumstances.

“There was a police investigation into Mr Fisher’s death and there does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances.”

Stephen Fisher (Image: Zara Greaves)Mr Sigee offered his condolences to the family before setting a provisional date for a full inquest.

He said: “I am satisfied it is appropriate to open an inquest.

“I offer my condolences to the family, and I am sorry to hear of these circumstances.”

The inquest into the death of the brother and sister will continue on January 8, 2024, to allow enquiries to continue with mental health and drug and alcohol services.

The sister of Carla and Stephen, Courtney Burtak, previously spoke to The Bolton News, paying tribute to Carla, describing here as a ‘perfect’ sister.

At the time she said: “Carla was very outgoing and had a strong personality.

“A lot of people misunderstood her, but she was my best friend and not just my sister.

“She was very loud, funny, and the light of the house all the time.

• ALSO READ: Bolton friend pays tribute to Ste Fisher who died aged 33
• ALSO READ: Family remember 26-year-old after tragic death in Deane

Carla Couperthwaite (Image: Courtney Burtak)“She was sweet and kind, she was the best sister anyone could need.”

Stephen’s best friend Nicky Lomax also paid tribute to Stephen after he died, saying that he was a man who was ‘kind to everyone'.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.