AN inquest has opened into the death of a Northwich man whose fatal stabbing led to a murder investigation.

Cheshire Police were called to a disturbance at a property on Brook Lane, Rudheath, at around 3.35pm on Saturday, September 28.

Officers found 37-year-old David Eaton dead at the scene, with ‘apparent stab injuries’, Cheshire Coroners’ Court heard on Wednesday.

He was identified to DS Nathan McCarthy by his father, Andrew, on September 30.

The previous day a post mortem examination was carried out at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital mortuary.

An inquest has been requested because the death is unnatural, the hearing was told.

Jaqueline Devonish, senior coroner for Cheshire, opened the inquest and adjourned it until May 1, 2025, for further work to be completed.

An internal review of the case will be held on December 8.

David EatonDavid Eaton (Image: Cheshire Police) Since Mr Eaton’s death, family and friends have paid tributes to the 'cheeky character'.

In a statement, his family said: “David was a popular, loveable rogue, with a heart of gold.”

A spokesman for Northwich Victoria FC said: "Everyone at Northwich Victoria is deeply saddened of the death of David Eaton (Bode) in a tragic incident.

"Our deepest sympathy goes out to all his family and friends and his loveable cheeky character will be deeply missed by us all at the club."

Matthew Higgins, of Brook Lane, has been charged with the murder of Mr Eaton.

The 35-year-old appeared at Chester Crown Court on October 2 and was remanded in custody by judge Michael Leeming.

No plea was entered, however a trial, expected to last 10 days, was set for March 24, next year.