Dereham: Inquest opened into Corey Lance, found dead at 20

The body of Corey Lance, 20, was discovered in the woodland at Neatherd Moor in Dereham on Wednesday, April 26.

At the opening, the court heard that Mr Lance, of no fixed abode, worked as a janitor.

His sister, Chelsea Howlett Lance, paid tribute to him earlier this month and said his death had sent shockwaves through her family and the community.  

Corey Lance (Image: Supplied by family)

“Corey was known as a caring, loving, there-for-anybody sort of young man,” she said.  

“He will be sorely missed by myself, all his siblings, aunties, uncles, cousins, nan, everyone in the family and friends.” 

READ MORE: Family's tribute to Marina Watters, 26, of Dereham, who died at home

She added that her brother had just started working at the Romany Rye, Dereham's JD Wetherspoon pub.   

Mr Lance’s brother, Mason Cummings, also paid tribute. He said: “He was such a loveable person who always had a smile on his face.  

“He would always ensure that everyone around him was warmed by his presence.” 

Corey Lance (right) with his brother Mason Cummings (Image: Supplied by family)

The inquest opening, which took place on Thursday, May 11, was led by the senior coroner for Norfolk, Jacqueline Lake. She confirmed that Mr Lance was born on February 18, 2003, in Ipswich. 

His medical cause of death was given as “hanging” and an inquest to determine the official cause of death will take place on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at Norfolk Coroner’s Court at County Hall, Norwich. 

• If you need help and support, call NHS 111 and select option 2 or the Samaritans on 116 123. Both services are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can also download the Stay Alive app on Apple & Android.