The death of Jenny Hall, 23, whose body was found in a stream following a five-day search in County Durham, was caused by the effects of amphetamine and paracetamol, an inquest heard on 10 November 2026.

Senior Coroner Crispin Oliver told the hearing that a post-mortem examination had given the cause of death as the effects of amphetamine and paracetamol. The woman, a keen long-distance runner from Tow Law, disappeared on 18 February 2025 and was found five days later in a remote area of Teesdale.

The inquest into Hall's death is due to conclude on 26 November, when investigating officers from Durham Constabulary are expected to give evidence, according to a report by the BBC.

Medical Findings and Unanswered Questions

The medical findings identify the substances involved but do not establish why or how Hall took them. Published reports of the hearing have not specified the quantities involved or determined whether her death was accidental or intentional. The coroner has yet to reach a final conclusion about the circumstances.

Amphetamine is a stimulant that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, according to National Health Service (NHS) guidance.

Paracetamol is widely used for pain and fever, but excessive amounts can cause serious liver damage.

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Hall's Disappearance and Abandoned Car

Hall was last seen leaving her home shortly after 3 pm on 18 February 2025. Police located her red Ford Focus the following day on the B6278 between Eggleston and Stanhope, near open moorland. Search efforts focused partly on trails around Hamsterley Forest and Eggleston that she was known to use.

Investigators examined information from Hall's mobile phone, smartwatch and running applications, but police said those enquiries had produced no useful leads during the search. Officers also followed information provided by members of the public. Chief Inspector Dean Haythornthwaite said at the time that police were increasingly concerned for her safety.

Rescuers Faced Muddy Moorland and Difficult Weather

The operation involved Durham Police, HM Coastguard and mountain rescue teams from across the region. Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team led searches covering about 97 kilometres of paths and tracks. More than 60 volunteers joined the effort, supported by search dogs, drones and specialist officers.

Rescue volunteer Peter Bell said the size of the search area and its muddy, boggy ground made the operation difficult. Police also reported challenging weather conditions during the five days. Teams examined countryside and wooded routes while asking the public not to interfere with specialist search work, as per a report by ITV News.

Body Discovered in Remote Teesdale Stream

Hall's body was discovered shortly after 9:30 am on Sunday, 23 February 2025, in a stream in a remote part of Teesdale. Police said at the time that they did not believe there were any suspicious circumstances. Her family was informed and supported by specialist officers.

The search for Hall prompted a substantial public response, including donations to the mountain rescue team after it ended. A report by Mountain Rescue England and Wales recorded more than £7,000 donated to the Teesdale and Weardale team.

Investigating officers are expected to return to the coroner's court on 26 November as the inquest examines the circumstances surrounding Hall's death.

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