A coroner has determined that the delayed autism diagnosis of a 12-year-old boy did not play a role in his passing. The verdict came following an inquest indicating that the boy likely did not have suicidal intentions.
Riley Townsend, residing in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, tragically took his own life in September of last year. Riley was scheduled to commence a new term at Ashfield School on September 3, 2024, following a transfer from his previous school, Quarrydale Academy, where he faced challenges and was excluded several times due to his behavior. His family had been pursuing an autism diagnosis for him for three years before his passing on September 1, 2024.
While Riley was diagnosed with ADHD in November 2021, an assessment for autism spectrum disorder yielded an “inconclusive” result. Despite the possibility of reassessment in the future if concerns arose, Riley did not receive an autism diagnosis.
During an inquest at Nottingham Coroner’s Court, it was revealed that Riley was due to receive an autism diagnosis in October 2024, a month after his demise, due to various delays that occurred over the years. Nonetheless, Coroner Amanda Bewley concluded that these delays did not contribute significantly to the boy’s death.
In her remarks, Ms. Bewley stated, “Although there was a delay in Riley having an assessment for ASD, I’ve not made a finding that this has more than minimally contributed to his death. Before his death, it appeared to me based on evidence that he was at no more distress than on other occasions in the last six months of his life.”
The court learned that Riley seemed composed when he asked his mother for dinner approximately 20 minutes before he was found unresponsive. Ms. Bewley added that distressing videos discovered on Riley’s phone and concerning drawings and writings in a notebook likely did not indicate his intention to end his life but rather reflected his escalating distress and emotional challenges.
She clarified, “I have not identified any missed opportunities to intervene or identify risk. Family and all the agencies involved were responding promptly and appropriately to Riley’s increasing levels of dysregulated behavior. In my judgement, all that could sensibly be done was done, particularly in the last week before his death. In my judgement, Riley’s death was not foreseeable. It is my finding that Riley did not intend to take his life when he did.”
Ms. Bewley highlighted instances when Riley struggled to manage his emotions and was overwhelmed by them but expressed a desire to control his behavior. She emphasized that Riley had not indicated any plans to take his own life and noted the rapid loss of consciousness that could occur when using a ligature around the neck.
Describing the activity as very risky, with the potential for fatal consequences for impulsive or exploratory actions, Ms. Bewley stated, “He was deeply affected by his neurodiversity and overwhelmed by his impulsivity and aggression, with no insight into personal danger and the effect of those behaviors on those around him. His consequential thinking was clearly compromised by his challenges in self-regulation. I am not satisfied that Riley intended to end his life and it is my judgement that his death was not by way of suicide.”
Riley’s mother, Abi Louise Hill, paid a touching tribute to her son, describing him as a humorous, joyful individual who brought laughter and smiles to those around him. She expressed regret that more support was not available for Riley and emphasized the family’s efforts to provide him with the necessary assistance.
For emotional support, individuals can reach out to the Samaritans helpline at 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch, or access the Samaritans website.