Coroner consoles family over young man's death

A CORONER has consoled the family of a much-loved and well-liked young man who felt he had had no other option but to end his life.

- By CARL EVE

Area coroner Alison Longhorn was left trying to urge his family and friends to not be overwhelmed by misplaced feelings of guilt over 21-year-old James Stapleton's desperately sad end, saying it was clear to her that they had "provided a lifetime of love and support".

Described as "shy" and "introverted" by some, he was also regarded as kind, loving and loyal and "the funniest person" who "always made his friends laugh", the young man's passing clearly left a huge hole in many people's lives.

The inquest at Exeter County Hall heard James was reported missing on December 5, 2022, after concerns about his welfare.

But in the early hours of December 6, security staff spotted a body at Plymouth's waterfront off Madeira Road. Police were called to the scene and cut them down and carried out CPR but in vain. He was later confirmed dead at the scene.

Officers carried out a search of his belongings and found a driving licence which revealed his identity before finding a small piece of folded white paper on which he had written: "I'm sorry you all deserved a kinder goodbye. This was no-one's fault but my own. I love you all so much."

Reading out witness statements, Ms Longhorn said James was described as going from a teen who did not drink or do drugs, who was close to his friends and family, but who, on beginning a course at university in Plymouth, became more distant from those who loved him.

The inquest heard he had got work in a Barbican bar, but struggled with finances as he was not on enough hours to pay his bills. It was also noted he had quit his course and at one stage got involved with a girl who his friends and family felt was abusive towards him.