Rugby star who took his own life had suffered several concussions
A FORMER Solihull rugby star took his own life after suffering a number of concussions, an inquest has heard.
Cae Trayhern, 37, who used to play for Pertemps Bees, died as a result of asphyxia.
He was found by his parents at his home in Blackwood, South Wales, after they had become concerned for his wellbeing.
An inquest at Newport Coroners’ Court heard that Trayhern, who had been on tour to Dubai with the Newport Gwent Dragons, had suffered a number of concussions during his playing career.
His mother Althea Clarke said her son was in good physical health, but his mental health deteriorated after he retired from the game in 2013. She said that during his playing career he had suffered around 11 concussions. “He said he was having visions and he became religious, which he never was before,” she said.
The inquest also heard that selfemployed engineer Trayhern’s long-term relationship with his partner had broken down this year.
Before his death, he had been admitted to Ystrad Mynach Hospital for a suspected nervous breakdown and was referred to mental health services, but he did not want to be readmitted to hospital.
A note in his handwriting was found in the bedroom, and police were satisfied there had been no third party involvement. A postmortem examination concluded that the cause of death was due to asphyxia.
Gwent Coroner David Bowen said: “Mr Trayhern, who in his younger days had been a rugby player of considerable note, had been suffering from mental health issues and was found by his concerned parents. His death was the result of his own unassisted act intended to end his own life.
“There have been suggestions that the concussions he suffered in his rugby career may have played a part in the deterioration of his mental health. I make no comment on that other than it is a concern of the family. Whether it was an effect in this case I cannot say.”
The coroner recorded a conclusion of suicide.