Psychological support in place for locals after deaths of British couple in France
Andrew and Dawn Searle were found dead at their home in Aveyron on February 6
British couple Andrew and Dawn Searle were found dead at their home in Villefranche-de-Rouergue on February 6
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Key points
British couple Andrew Searle (62) and Dawn Searle (56) were found dead at their home in Villefranche-de-Rouergue on February 6, 2025.
Their bodies were discovered by a neighbour passing by at 12:25 with his dog.
Mrs Searle was found partially undressed outside the home with a box containing jewellery found nearby. She had multiple head injuries.
Mr Searle was found hanging from a rope attached to a radiator with no visible defensive injuries.
No weapon was found at the scene.
The home appeared to have been searched, but cash was still present in the bedroom.
No evidence of sexual assault was found.
Additional forensic tests are underway.
Questions still remain as to the motive and culprit
A psychological support group has been set up for British residents and locals affected by the deaths of Andrew and Dawn Searle who were found dead at their home in Aveyron on February 6.
The couple were reportedly well integrated into the local British community of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, attending local parties and lunches and regularly walking their dog with neighbours.
The violence of their deaths has left locals in shock and given rise to numerous theories and speculation in the British press linked to Mr Searle’s previous work as an investigator into financial crimes.
In addition, Mrs Searle is the mother of actor Callum Kerr, known for the Netflix drama Virgin River.
One British resident told The Connexion: “This is a beautiful part of the world, so peaceful, but since the killings I have such a horrible feeling when I wake up.”
Read more: ‘We're so shocked’: Locals react to mystery deaths of British couple in France
To help local residents manage the psychological trauma of the deaths, a support group organised by the mairie of Villefranche-de-Rouergue has been set up at ADAVEM 12.
“We are offering free individual support but may put in place group sessions at a later date for people to share their feelings,” ADAVEM 12 director Rémy Sévigné told The Connexion.
“We have already had around ten people make contact for support. We do not specifically offer English language counselling but we will certainly do our best to find a solution.”
Local residents who wish to share their feelings on the deaths are invited to contact ADAVEM 12 on 05 65 73 56 00 or visit 1 rue Séguy 12000 RODEZ.
“There is no time limit on this help, even if people need help for this years from now, we will be there,” said Mr Sévigné. “It’s free and available to anyone in the department.”
