The loved ones of an Isle of Wight man who died on holiday in Colombia have said they are “all missing him” following the opening of the inquest into his death.
The inquest into the death of James Michael Winkles was opened at the Isle of Wight Coroner’s Court earlier today (Wednesday).
As previously reported by Island Echo, the body of Mr Winkles, who was in the South American country on holiday, was found on the beach in the coastal city of Cartagena on the morning of 22nd March 2026.
A post mortem examination carried out on the 4th June at St Mary’s Hospital determined the cause of death was unascertained at autopsy. Court heard how it is believed that James, who lived in Sandown, drowned.
Condolences were passed on to the 30-year-old’s family.
Issuing a tribute, James’ family said:
“We love him and we are all missing him.”
HM Senior Coroner Caroline Sumeray adjourned the inquest to the provisional date of 9th March.
Due to the death occuring on foreign soil, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) are involved in proceedings.
