Investigation and inquest
On 17th September 2018 I commenced an investigation into the death of Muhammed Wajid, aged 29. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 7th January 2020. The conclusion of the inquest was that Mr Wajid's death was due to multiple injuries sustained in a fall from Scammonden Bridge onto the westbound carriageway of the M62 motorway, and the jury concluded that the death was a suicide.
Circumstances of the death
On 12th September 2018, Mr Wajid was observed by passers by to be standing adjacent to the fence of Scammonden Bridge in a manner giving rise to concerns for his safety. Police officers attended, and he was safely removed from the scene pursuant to the provisions of s.136 of the Mental Health Act 1983. Following an assessment at Airedale Hospital, Mr Wajid agreed to be admitted to Lynfield Mount Hospital, Bradford, as a voluntary patient. On the following morning, Mr Wajid was permitted unaccompanied leave from Lynfield Mount, and took a taxi to Scammonden Bridge, where he was seen to jump to his death.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) Scammonden Bridge is a locally notorious location for suicides.
(2) Reports to prevent future deaths have been made to Kirklees Council and Highways England under the above statutory provisions following deaths occurring in similar circumstances.
(3) Kirklees Council and Highways England have reported proposed steps to prevent future deaths to the coroner following a similar report. The coroner is not aware whether those steps have been fully actioned.