AN AMESBURY mother whose body was found hidden under a bed, was killed by a combination of alcohol and drugs several days before, an inquest has concluded.

Samantha Dixon (nee Magee) was discovered by Wiltshire Police officers in friend Stan Lee Marvel’s flat in Bence Court, Amesbury on November 30 last year, after an anonymous tip off led them to the address.

Salisbury Coroners’ Court heard that Marvel had discovered the 34-year-old – who was suffering with a heavy alcohol addiction, dead in his bed after returning from a trip to Bristol.

Just a few days before, at the flat on November 27, Samantha smoked heroin for the first time.

A post-mortem examination concluded that the drug’s effects were exacerbated by the alcohol, and formed a fatal mix which led to her death, the inquest heard.

Assistant coroner Ian Singleton recorded a conclusion of an alcohol and drug related death.

Salisbury Journal:

Bence Court, where Samantha's body was found

Speaking at the inquest, Elizabeth Hunt, of Wiltshire Police’s major crimes unit, said that in a panic, Marvel then hid Samantha’s body under the bed, before then leaving the flat.

He had told friends that he hid the body, which police believe he did on November 30, in case his then-girlfriend went over to collect her things following a recent split.

However, after Samantha’s body was discovered, officers arrested Marvel after spotting him in Trowbridge on December 3.

The pathologist added that Samantha's death occurred a number of days prior to her body being found by police.

Last month Marvel pleaded guilty to preventing a lawful burial and is set to be sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on October 24.

Samantha’s family, who were also present at the inquest, described how they last saw her on November 27 when her father Arthur Magee had visited her Haragon Drive home.

But, when they were unable to contact her the next day, a search began.

Word then reached them on November 30 that police officers were at a flat in the town, which was where Samantha was found.

Paying tribute following her death last year, they said: “We have lost our beautiful talented Samantha Ann Magee in such tragic circumstances.

“She was always surrounded by her loving family and friends and enjoyed social gatherings.

“Samantha spent most of her life in Amesbury and after leaving school she pursued a career in acting. She loved to dance and sing and her desire for the arts led her to Andover School of Arts and then East 15 Acting School.

“Samantha’s greatest achievement was becoming a mother. She totally adored her daughter and whatever happened in Samantha’s life she never ever stopped loving her.

“Tragically over the last couple of years Samantha battled with an alcohol addiction.

“Unfortunately, this grip took her down the wrong path and we believe contributed to her untimely passing.

“Samantha was known throughout the community for her beautiful smile and kindness. We will all remember the happy times we shared with Samantha and know she is finally at peace.”