Leanne DUNN · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 16th September 2022 I opened an inquest into the death of Leanne DUNN, aged 44. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 8th December 2022. I found that the deceased died having sustained multiple traumatic injuries after falling from the bridge ████████. I concluded that her death was suicide.

Leanne was seen to climb up from the footpath, turn around and push herself backwards off the bridge at Newton Cap.

All concerns relate to the bridge ████████, which carries a road and two footpaths up to around 30m (100ft) above the reiver Weir

(1) the bridge’s parapet and railing is accessible to pedestrians on the bridge;

████████
████████

(3) there is absence of monitored CCTV and lighting or other means of detecting those at immediate risk; and

(4) there is a risk of death to persons falling AND to those near the foot of the bridge at any time when persons fall.

The body of a further person was found at the foot of the bridge on 3rd December 2022 in circumstances which may be consistent with his having fallen from the top of the bridge.

Thank you for your letter dated 30th November 2022 (a copy of which is attached hereto and part of the contents of which were read at inquest); in it you have informed me about various measures which have been implemented and more which are due to be implemented to address these matters and to reduce the risk of future deaths.