The former head of the Royal Marines Major General Matthew Holmes died as a result of hanging, a hearing to open the inquest into his death has heard.
Maj Gen Matthew Holmes had “concerns about his marriage and his service career”, Hampshire coroner Jason Pegg told the hearing in Winchester.
Police also attended an incident at his home address in the city on September 22, Mr Pegg said.
The circumstances of his death are being investigated, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.
Major General Matthew Holmes, 54, had served in Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan – and was Commandant General Royal Marines from 2019 until April this year.
He commanded 42 Commando from 2006 to 2008 and was appointed as a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership on operations in Afghanistan in 2007.
He was also awarded a CBE in 2019 - and was a pall bearer for Prince Philip, helping to carry the Duke of Edinburgh's coffin at Windsor Castle.
First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said he was “deeply saddened to hear about the tragic death” of his friend, adding: “We mourn the loss of one of our most senior and highly decorated Royal Marines; a devoted former Commandant General who had served the nation, the Royal Navy and his beloved Corps with distinction for 33 years.
“Matt was also a dear friend to many, and a close friend of mine for over 20 years. He will be sorely missed by the Service and especially the Corps Family.
“But my thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy are with Matt’s family.
“Their loss is the greatest and most painful: we will be there for them now and always.”
Lieutenant General Rob Magowan, who succeeded Major General Holmes as head of the Royal Marines, said: “My heart goes out to him and his family.
“We will honour him and all those closest to him.”
He added: “It matters not that he was a general, but it does that he is a Royal Marine.
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea
