A CONVICTED drug dealer died in a hail of bullets in a "gangland execution," an inquest heard.

Leonard Naylor, 46, who served three years for dealing class A drugs, was slain outside his home in Bracondale Avenue, Istead Rise, on April 19. His wife, Eileen, and teenage daughter attended the inquest at Gravesend Coroner's Court on December 18. The coroner's verdict was Mr Naylor was unlawfully killed.

Consultant Pathologist Dr David Rouse said multiple gunshot wounds caused his death.

He said Mr Naylor suffered five gunshot wounds, "two of which would have been fatal in their own right."

Neighbour Evelyn Jones said she ran to the Naylor's bungalow when she heard the shots. Mr Naylor was lying alongside his car and his wife was calling for her husband.

Detective Chief Inspector Colin Murray, who added Mr Naylor had a gunshot to the head at close range, said: "We believe this was a professional gangland execution prepared over a number of weeks."

Insp Murray told the inquest a white van followed Mr Naylor's car into the cul-de-sac as he returned from a day out with his father.

A balaclava-clad figure was seen on the drive outside his £200,000 home before making his escape in the van, he said.

The van was found burnt out at Pepper Hill, off the A2. An Alfa Romeo, which might have been following Mr Naylor earlier, was also abandoned and burnt out. Both vehicles were bought last February.

Insp Murray said the two original suspects, who were arrested and released without charge, earlier this year, had alibis at the time of the killing.

"There is no evidence that would enable us to bring charges in relation to these two suspects," he said.

Coroner Roger Hatch said Mr Naylor was unlawfully killed and extended his condolences to his family.

December 20, 2001 10:36

Lucy Brinicombe