Autopsy Reveals Stab Wound as Cause of death for Donald Coull in Newport Town

NEWPORT TOWN, Vermont (Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023) — An autopsy was conducted on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023, revealing that the deceased man found at 107 Lawson Rd. is 58-year-old Donald Coull, who resided at the same residence.

The Chief Medical Examiner’s Office has determined that Donald Coull’s cause of death was a stab wound to the chest. However, a ruling on the manner of death is still pending further investigation and toxicology testing. This testing process is expected to take several weeks to several months.

Another individual involved in the incident has been identified as 39-year-old Trevor Stone, who resides in a camper on the same property. Trevor Stone sustained a laceration/stab wound and received medical treatment at North Country Hospital. He has since been released.

The Vermont State Police are actively and continuously investigating this incident. Updates regarding the case will be provided as the investigation progresses. At this point, no further details are available.

***Initial news release, 10:20 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023***

The Vermont State Police have initiated an investigation into the death of a man at a residence located on Lawson Road in Newport Town.

This unfortunate incident occurred on Monday afternoon, Dec. 25, 2023, following a physical altercation between the deceased and another resident of the same property. The individual involved in the altercation received medical treatment at a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Preliminary investigation conducted by the Vermont State Police indicates that this incident was isolated to the specific address and involved individuals who were known to each other. It is not believed to be connected to any other cases under investigation.

The Vermont State Police received a report of the altercation at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Monday. Upon arrival, troopers discovered the lifeless body of a 58-year-old man at the scene. Simultaneously, a 39-year-old man had already been transported to a hospital by private vehicle.

Detectives have interviewed individuals associated with the incident, and all parties involved have been cooperative with the ongoing investigation. Currently, no suspects are in custody.

This investigation is still in its early stages and involves various units of the Vermont State Police, including the Major Crime Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Field Force Division, Crime Scene Search Team, and Victim Services Unit.

The Crime Scene Search Team is scheduled to process the scene later today. Meanwhile, the deceased’s body will be transferred to the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Burlington for an autopsy, which will determine the precise cause and manner of death. The names of the individuals involved will be disclosed once further investigation is conducted and relatives are notified.

Anyone who possesses information that could assist investigators in this case is urged to contact the Vermont State Police in Derby at 802-334-8881. Alternatively, tips can be submitted anonymously online at