An inquest has heard that housing association worker Eleanor Barnfield died from a stab wound to the heart after she was allegedly attacked while working at a retirement village in Bridgend, South Wales, on 19 October. The 47-year-old was found in a crashed car after driving a short distance from the scene, and later died in hospital.

The inquest opening, held on Thursday, was told that Ms Barnfield died from a "stab wound to the trunk involving the heart". The coroner's officer told the hearing that South Wales Police had received a report of a road traffic collision in Bridgend on 19 October, and that paramedics attending the crash found the driver, Ms Barnfield, had a stab wound to her chest. She was taken to the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend, where she later died.

Attack at retirement village and drive for help

Ms Barnfield worked as a housing officer for the charity Valleys to Coast at the Ger-y-Nant retirement housing complex in Bridgend, which provides 13 social housing flats for people over the age of 60. She was allegedly attacked at the complex at around 11.35am on Monday, 19 October. The hearing was told she had called 999 before the call dropped out, and then set off to drive herself to hospital. She was found collapsed at the wheel after driving about 300 yards and crashing into a wall on Coity Road.

A significant police operation followed at the retirement complex, where residents were evacuated before armed police moved in. Clifford Foster, 61, who lived at the complex, was arrested and has been charged with murder. He has previously appeared at Cardiff Crown Court charged with Ms Barnfield's murder. A plea and trial preparation hearing is listed for 23 November, with a provisional trial date of 12 April 2027.

Inquest suspended as criminal case continues

Coroner Rachel Knight said she would suspend the full inquest pending the conclusion of the criminal investigation. Ms Barnfield, from the nearby village of North Cornelly, was described by her family as "the kindest, most loving, bravest person in the world". In a tribute, her loved ones said: "She meant everything to us and will be forever loved and missed deeply by her devoted family and friends. She was our rock."

Jo Oak, chief executive of Valleys to Coast, said the organisation was devastated by the death of its colleague. South Wales Police said Ms Barnfield's family were being supported by specialist officers, and urged the public not to speculate about the circumstances while court proceedings are active. Read The Sun's report of the inquest hearing and the report of the murder charge and court dates.