Callum Kerr. Courtesy of Netflix
More details have emerged regarding the deaths of Virgin River star Callum Kerr’s mom and stepfather, Dawn and Andrew Searle.
The BBC reported on Tuesday, February 11, that 56-year-old Dawn suffered “multiple blows to the head with a blunt and sharp-edged object” while 62-year-old Andrew appeared to die by suicide.
“Further investigations (anatomo-pathological, toxicological) are under way in order to determine the precise circumstances of the deaths,” the statement read. “Investigations are continuing, in particular to determine whether the tragedy was the result of a spousal crime followed by suicide, or whether a third party intervened.”
According to the investigation, Dawn had a “severe head wound” but “no object or weapon capable of causing the injuries was found.” Andrew had “no visible defensive wounds,” and the property “appeared to have been searched superficially.” Toxicology reports are still pending.
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Kerr, 30, shared the news of his parents’ deaths in a social media statement on Saturday, February 8.
“At this time, Callum Kerr, Amanda Kerr, Tom Searle & Ella Searle are grieving the tragic loss of their mother and father, Dawn and Andrew Searle. No family member is available for media interviews or comments,” his Instagram post read. “We kindly request that their privacy be respected during this difficult period. We will provide updates as appropriate.”
Kerr’s Instagram bio notes that his account is “currently run by management” on his behalf.
Dawn and Andrew’s bodies were found by a neighbor at their home in Villefranche-de-Rouergue, France, on Thursday, February 6. The couple had relocated to France from their native Scotland nearly a decade prior, according to multiple outlets.
Kerr is known for playing the role of Young Everett on Virgin River. He also starred on the U.K. soap Hollyoaks, playing George Kiss from 2020 to 2021.
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When Dawn married Andrew in September 2023, the actor walked her down the aisle.
“Not many people can say they walked their own mother down the aisle,” he captioned an Instagram post at the time. “What a pleasure!! I love you mum. Congrats to Dawn and Andy on their wonderful wedding day and here’s to a tremendous life together for the happy couple.”
A spokesperson for the U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office has also released a statement regarding the death, noting, “We are supporting the family of a British couple who died in France and are liaising with the local authorities.”
