A disturbing picture has emerged of the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of Hervé Louis Appert, 63, who took his own life at the Chequers Inn in Wootton, near Bedford, after setting fire to the premises. The pub landlord's documented history of mental illness and previous episodes of suicidal behaviour have been laid bare during an ongoing inquest.
The incident unfolded on September 19th when Mr Appert ignited a fire at the inn, prompting armed police units to be deployed to the scene following a concern for welfare report from a friend who had received a 'goodbye' text message from him. Inspector Jennifer Flinn stated that armed officers were necessary due to Mr Appert's access to weapons and his vulnerable state.
As a standoff with officers ensued, PC Tom Wheeler attempted to negotiate with Mr Appert, who eventually emerged from the rear of the burning building carrying a crossbow. After an initial failure to discharge the weapon due to a safety catch, armed police fired rubber bullets to disarm him; however, Mr Appert then 'released a single bolt into his head', according to PC Wheeler, who added that Mr Appert's mind was made up to take his own life after setting fire to the pub.
Coroner Bina Patel at Ampthill Coroners' Court has been informed of Mr Appert's previous struggles with suicidal thoughts and his receipt of counselling for his mental health. Susan Levy, a former partner and close friend, detailed how his mental health had 'driven a wedge' between them, revealing that he had been sectioned on two occasions – in Scotland and again in 2016 following a previous suicide attempt.
The inquest also heard about Mr Appert's financial struggles, including £20,000 owed to his electricity company due to billing confusion, as well as his feelings of 'torment' from neighbours. His medical records show diagnoses of bipolar disorder, diabetes, and hypertension, with ongoing care from mental health services.
Ms Levy highlighted that certain events affected Mr Appert deeply, citing a challenging family background – including his father being a prisoner of war – and a 'very fraught' relationship with his mother. The inquest continues to shed light on the complex circumstances surrounding Mr Appert's death.