Accrington man took his life after sending concerning text messages

Sam Tattersall, who was born in Blackburn but last lived in Accrington, was found by police officers in his home on Dowry Street on Tuesday, December 13.

The inquest at Accrington Town Hall heard how Mr Tattersall was not known to any of the local mental health services and there had been no previous concerns voiced by his GP over his mental health.

Detective Inspector Simon Challinor, the senior investigating officer looking into Mr Tattersall’s death, said concerns were raised with the police regarding text messages exchanged between Mr Tattersall and an ex-partner earlier in the evening on December 12.

Officers gained access at the rear of the property having forced entry through a garden gate and the back door.

A friend, Mr Todd, also attended and became concerned when Mr Tattersall would not answer his phone or the front door.

The pair had spent some of the evening together and Mr Todd said Mr Tattersall was in “good spirits” despite the breakdown of the relationship with his previous partner.

When officers gained entry to the house, they sadly found Mr Tattersall had taken his own life.

He was taken to hospital to have an external examination which was conducted by Dr Mark Sissons, who offered a medical cause of death of hanging.

A toxicology report found some alcohol in his system, though this was described at the inquest as “not a significant amount.”

A statement from Mr Tattersall’s GP said there had never been any discussion of mental health problems, he was not known by Inspire or any other local mental health teams, and apart from the messages there was nothing to suggest anything out of the ordinary.

Concluding the inquest, Coroner Richard Taylor said there was “little option” but to return a conclusion of suicide, and he offered his condolences to family and friends.

If you are struggling with your mental health, speak to Samaritans by calling 116 123, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.