A GUN-TOTING Southampton dad-of-four was stabbed to death after he confronted three drug dealers at a flat in Southampton, an inquest heard today.

The hearing heart that police believe Michael Freshwater, 49, had a sawn-off shotgun and had gone to a flat in Westridge Road, Portswood, with the intention to rob the trio last April.

The shotgun was fired into the ceiling and in the struggle Mr Freshwater suffered the fatal wounds.

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The three drug dealers were Kevin Suika, Tristan Pope and Dantai Thompson. They have all subsequently been jailed for drug dealing.

But the hearing heard that the Crown Prosecution Service has decided not to prosecute the trio for murder.

The senior coroner Grahame Short gave a narrative verdict.

After the hearing Detective Inspector Simon Baker, from Hampshire Constabulary's Major Crime Team, said: “At this time, upon the advice of the Crown Prosecution Service, there is not enough evidence available to pursue a charge against any of those who were arrested in connection with the killing of Michael, aka ‘Micky’ Freshwater.

“There are no active lines of enquiry, and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with Michael’s death.

“Tackling drug-related violence remains a priority in Southampton. Six men were recently sentenced to a total of 28-and-half-years in prison for their part in a drugs conspiracy exposed by Hampshire Constabulary’s Major Crime team following the discovery of Michael’s body.

“Independent charity Crimestoppers still offers a £10,000 reward for information leading to the successful conviction of those responsible for Michael’s murder.

“We will re-examine the circumstances if and when new information becomes available.”