The cause of death of a five-year-old Essex boy who died shortly before Christmas remains a mystery as an inquest opened into his death. Lincoln Button was found unresponsive at an address in South Ockendon on December 15, 2024 and tragically died at the scene.
Lincoln was described as a “beautiful young soul” by his family following the tragic death. Essex Police are still investigating the incident and have charged his mother Claire Button, 35, of Windstar Drive, South Ockendon, with murder.
An inquest into Lincoln’s death was opened at Essex Coroners’ Court this morning (January 15). Coroners’ officer Lynsey Chaffe said: “On December 15, 2024, Lincoln John Button was found at home unresponsive. An ambulance was called and paramedics arrived.
“But despite all efforts, he did not survive. A post-mortem examination was carried out at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and a provisional cause of death was given as 1A undetermined pending further investigation.
“The service has been informed that a third party has been charged in relation to this death.” Area Coroner Sonia Hayes opened the inquest and was satisfied that Lincoln Button was the identity of the deceased.
She said the coroner’s office had been asked by Essex Police to suspend their investigation while the criminal proceedings are ongoing. She said: “I will suspend this inquest because a person has been charged in relation to the death of Lincoln John Button. I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the friends and family of Lincoln.”
The family of Lincoln, who was a pupil at Bonnygate Primary School, previously said in a statement: “’Link’ was a cherished, loved, sweet, beautiful young soul who was adored by all and will be sorely missed every day.”
In a statement, the school described Lincoln as a cheeky, smiley, happy boy who was loved fondly by the Bonnygate family. It added: “His love for school, laughter and cuddles will be remembered and missed dearly.”