THE cause of a suspicious death in a Colchester street will never be known.

An open verdict was recorded after the death of 35-year-old James Macarthur in Colchester.

Essex Coroner Caroline Beasley- Murray said she could not be sure about his death at a home in Salisbury Avenue on September 1.

His death was investigated by police at the time, coming three days after the suspicious death of a neighbour.

Less than 72 hours earlier Daniel Spinks, 34, had died in Salisbury Avenue.

At an inquest earlier this month, Coroner Eleanor McGann ruled Mr Spinks died as a result of drink and drugs. Two people arrested on suspicion of injecting him were released from their bail.

Essex Police said their deaths were not connected and were thought to be a coincidence.