An inquest has opened into the death of a 55-year-old businessman.
Mark Pearce, a director at Swanscombe-based demolitions company Lancebox Group, died on the M2 near junction 2 for Strood, at around 5am on July 23.
Emergency services attended the coastbound carriageway, between Junctions 1 and 3, following “concerns for the welfare of a person”.
An inquest into Mr Pearce’s death opened at Oakwood House in Maidstone today (August 4), where it was heard he is understood to have died following a fall from height at the A228 Cuxton Road Bridge.
Coroner Sarah Clarke said Mr Pearce, who lived nearby in Oliver Twist Close, Rochester, was suffering from mental health issues at the time of his death.
Police were alerted to the incident when they received a call just before 5am and say his death is not being treated as suspicious.
For confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time or visit www.samaritans.org.
The M2 was shut between Junctions 1 and 3 and reopened at around 9.20am that day.
Tributes to Mr Pearce, who was originally from Fulham and Hammersmith, have since been tied to the railings on the bridge.
A yellow high-viz vest with details of his company has also been attached to the fencing alongside several bunches of flowers, some of which carry written tributes.
One note said: “Hope you are now at peace. You’ll never be forgotten. Forever in our hearts.”
Another said: “We all loved you so much. You are a massive void in our lives. Love you forever.”
The full inquest was adjourned until January 27, 2026.
