Coroner: ‘unclear’ why doctor took his own life
‘HE WAS A YOUNG MAN WHO HAD ACHIEVED A LOT IN HIS LIFE’
A BURTON doctor who took his own life while mentally unwell sparked a major incident in Burton, an inquest has heard.
Gareth Davies had been struggling with depression and anxiety in the lead up to his death at his home at St James’ Court, in Grants Yard, on May 18, this year.
His inquest heard he had been prescribed antidepressants and was seeking counselling before he died and had said he was feeling like they were working.
The 32-year-old had qualified as a doctor and scuba diver and had been at work all weekend before he was found dead at home.
His death sparked a major incident in Burton after he left a warning note on the stairs to his home indicating that chemicals were involved, the hearing was told.
South Staffordshire coroner Andrew Haigh said that Mr Davies died from asphyxiation and ruled that his death was the result of suicide while mentally unwell. There was no third party involved in his death, he said.
Mr Haigh said: “I’ve been told Gareth was only 32 when he died. He was a young man who had achieved a lot. He had qualified as a scuba diver and a doctor.
“Gareth did have some problems in his life, some difficulties with family members and health problems as well. In terms of attendance for his health, he sees his GP in February and is prescribed antidepressants.
“In early March his condition seems to be improving.
“Gareth was working as a GP at a different practice, working the weekend of May 16 and 17.
“There were no concerns about his work. On May 18 he does not attend work and that’s immediately a concern and enquiries are made.
“It remains unclear why Gareth decided to do this.”
Mr Haigh passed on his condolences to Dr Davies’ family, adding
that his death was not expected and he was a conscientious doctor.
A statement from his family was read at the inquest. It said he was a successful man who had realised his life’s ambition to scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
He was also a huge believer in organisations who help men with mental health issues.
Dr Davies’ death led to a major incident in Burton with emergency services called to the scene and there for most of the day.
Staffordshire Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service were all present, with around 12 emergency vehicles counted at the scene at the peak of the incident.
There were called at 11am that day and remained at the building throughout the next morning.