Trystan Bryant · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 17/05/2017 I commenced an investigation into the death of Trystan Bryant, 38 . The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 11 October 2018. The conclusion of the inquest was SUICIDE See attached Multiple Injuries Consistent with a Fall from Height

Mr Trystan Bryant has a history of mental illness dating back to 2005. He was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Mr Bryant was receiving ongoing support from the Cornwall Mental Health Trust. As a result of his illness Mr Bryant expressed suicide intent on several occasions. Due to missed appointments Mr Bryant’s last interaction with Cornwall Mental Health Trust was 7 March 2017.

On 11 May 2017 Mr Bryant left the family home and made his way to the Tamar Bridge. On arrival Mr Bryant proceeded to ascend the cable to the top of the bridge. Emergency services were deployed to the scene and after negotiation Mr Bryant was assisted down to the roadside. He was then detained by the police under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act and escorted by two police officers to an ambulance. Two members of the South West Ambulance team entered the ambulance followed by Mr Bryant and the two police officers. After approximately one minute and twenty seconds Mr Bryant exited the ambulance via the rear door.

Mr Bryant proceeded to cross three barriers to the outer barrier of the bridge. Mr Bryant spent approximately 20 minutes in conversation with the police in negotiations before falling to the river below. The fall resulted in multiple injuries consistent with a fall from height, resulting in Mr Bryant’s death on 12 May 2017.

Ambulance Doors

When ambulances are stationary ambulance doors cannot be locked to prevent egress from inside the vehicle.

This may affect police containment preparations when police officers are escorting individuals for the purposes of Section 136 of the Mental Health Act