A MYSTERY broken bone killed a 61-year-old Downs Syndrome sufferer, an inquest was told.

The hearing heard that William Alfred Greenhough died as a result of a fat and bone marrow embolism, which could only have resulted from a bone fracture within the last 48 hours of his life.

But pathologist Richard Prescott said there were no visible broken bones and without examining every single bone in the body it would not be possible to identify the source of the fat and marrow.

Coroner Michael Singleton said he had little alternative other than to record an open verdict.

"I am unable to establish which bone it was or when it was broken," said Mr Singleton.

The inquest heard that William had lived at supported accommodation in Florence Street, Blackburn, since 1994 when he left Calderstones Hospital. He received 24-hour a day support.