Tributes have been paid after a ‘hugely successful’ 26-year-old former soldier and armed police officer was found passed away at the Imperial Recreation Ground, in Exmouth, just days before Christmas.
Toby Feeney, who lived in Buckfastleigh, was discovered by a member of the public December 21, 2024. An inquest into his death recently opened at Exeter Coroner’s Court. During the short hearing, it was confirmed that Toby was born in Munster, Germany, and was single and a refrigeration engineer.
Alison Longhorn, area coroner for Devon, told how on December 20, Toby and his partner had attended a party in Exmouth and then left separately.
Toby Feeney passed away in Exmouth
(Image: Submitted)
Mrs Longhorn said: “Toby contacted his friend which caused his friend to be concerned for his welfare. On December 21, a member of the public contacted police saying they had located a male in a public place suspended. Emergency services attended and sadly the male was confirmed deceased at the scene. Identification showed it was Toby Feeney. Presently, the precise cause of death has not yet been established.”
The inquest was adjourned for a full hearing to be held at a later date. Loving tributes have been shared by two of his brothers.
Imperial Recreation Ground, Exmouth
(Image: Google)
Toby’s older brother Rob, who is based in Norway, said: “Toby has had the most profound impact on all of our lives and his passing has left us bereft. Toby achieved huge success in his short years, having served in the armed forces, before joining the police as a specialist firearms officer.
“We are immensely proud of all he achieved and know he will be deeply missed by his family, fiancé and friends. As a family we will do everything we can to ensure Toby’s legacy lives on through us. Rest easy brother.”
Sam, the youngest of Toby’s brothers, added: “It is with great pain we heard of Toby’s passing. It has left an enormous void in our lives, leaving very cherished memories.
“He achieved so much in such adversity; those closest to him were so proud. There was a bond between Toby and I that will forever leave me broken now he isn’t here.”