A 78-year-old man died after being trampled by cattle at a National Trust estate in Norfolk, according to an inquest heard on Thursday. John Orton, a retired telecommunications engineer, sustained severe chest injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene on July 13.

Emergency services were called to Felbrigg Hall shortly before 11:45 a.m. following reports of the incident. A post-mortem examination identified the provisional cause of death as severe chest injuries caused by the trampling.

The inquest was opened at Norfolk Coroner’s Court, where details of the incident were presented. Authorities have confirmed that an investigation into the circumstances is ongoing.

A National Trust spokesperson expressed their condolences, stating that the organization was “shocked and deeply saddened” by Mr. Orton’s death but declined to provide further comment due to the ongoing inquiry.