Suicide verdict six years after hanging (From Warrington Guardian)

Suicide verdict six years after hanging

A WARRINGTON inmate whose suicide bid was foiled by a prison officer died six years later from injuries relating to the incident.

An inquest heard how Lee Masters was nearing the end of his 15-month prison sentence at Lindholme prison in Doncaster when he attempted suicide by hanging himself on January 25, 1999.

He died more than six years later on February 8 last year in Warrington Hospital, where he had been admitted as an emergency the day before, suffering from a chest infection.

He had never spoken since his suicide attempt and - though 'quite aware' according to his mum Pauline who cared for him at home in Fearnhead over the six years - had never properly regained consciousness.

Ms Masters told the hearing at Doncaster Coroner's Court that her son had been very depressed towards the end of his time in prison but added: "We really cannot say why he took the actions he did that night."

Mr Masters, aged 31, was saved after a fellow inmate raised the alarm, alerting a prison officer.

Dr Nawal Alash, who cared for Mr Masters at Warrington Hospital, said in a written statement that the suicide attempt six years ago had caused severe brain damage.

He added: "This damage clearly left him susceptible to infections."

Recording a verdict of suicide, Coroner Stanley Hooper said: "On January 25, 1999, Mr Masters intended to end his own life and he succeeded, but not until six years had elapsed."