The death of a father-of-two who was found dead in a river remains unexplained, an inquest has ruled.

Bradley Lewis’s body was discovered floating in the River Brain near to Chipping Hill, Witham, on Feburary 23 where it was later ruled he had drowned.

A police investigation was launched to establish the circumstances surrounding Mr Lewis’ death, however at an inquest at Essex Coroners’ Court on Monday, third party involvement was ruled out.

Forensic pathologist Dr Nathaniel Cary gave evidence at the inquest.

He said: “There was no evidence of assault or restraint.

“There was also no evidence of any injuries that meant he had been put in the river against his will.

“The toxicology report identified a high level of cocaine in his blood. The amount was described as very high.

“In addition there was recent use of cannabis and Diazepam. He would have been effected by all three substances.

“The cocaine is relevant to the circumstances because people may conduct irrational behaviour when on the drug.

“He may have done something which caused him to end up in the water without intending to.”

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Richard Trower said before his death the father-of-two had told his family he was concerned for his safety.

He said: “We looked into the possibility of third party involvement and we did all the relevant enquiries.

“But we found no information or evidence to suggest third party involvement.”

Senior Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said there was no way to tell for sure how Mr Lewis had drowned.

She said: “I am going to record an open conclusion, which means there is not enough evidence for any of the other conclusions.

“We will never, unless some new evidence comes to light, really know what happened or what was going through his mind.”