In brief
Callum Kerr, the actor known for his roles in Hollyoaks and Netflix's Virgin River, is in mourning after the shocking discovery of his parents' bodies in France.
In a heart-wrenching statement posted on social media, Callum Kerr expressed profound grief after the tragic loss of his mother, Dawn Searle, and father, Andrew Searle. The couple, both in their sixties, were found dead in their home in southwest France after failing to meet a neighbor for a planned dog walk. The authorities, including local police and forensic teams, are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths, which have been labeled a "homicide" by the local mayor, Jean-Sébastien Orcibal.The Scottish couple had relocated to the picturesque village of Les Pesquiès from Scotland over a decade ago, becoming beloved members of the community. In his emotional message, Callum Kerr, along with siblings Amanda, Tom, and Ella, requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time and promised to provide updates when possible.The couple's lifeless bodies were discovered on Thursday afternoon, igniting an extensive investigation involving experts from Toulouse. While the cause of death remains uncertain, early reports have dismissed burglary as a motive, citing the absence of any weapon at the scene. As the authorities continue to piece together the events leading to this tragedy, Kerr revealed he had joyfully walked his mother down the aisle during her wedding to Andrew earlier this year, a moment he cherished deeply.The local mayor shared that the couple was well-integrated into village life and often hosted fellow expatriates, which raises further questions about the nature of the tragedy. A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign Office has confirmed that they are offering support to the family during this harrowing time and are in contact with French authorities. The community mourns this sudden loss, hoping for clarity as the investigation proceeds.
