A young woman, known for her vibrant personality, was discovered deceased in her university accommodation by her partner, who tragically took his own life a few weeks later. Natasha Braithwaite, a first-year fine art student at Lancaster University, was fondly described as sweet, artistic, and talented. The 19-year-old, hailing from Lincoln, had recently commenced her studies when she was found lifeless in her dorm at Bowland College on November 20 last year.
According to reports, Natasha, who had quickly formed friendships at university, had plans to meet her boyfriend Tom Dingle on the night of her passing. However, Tom unintentionally fell asleep, and upon waking up and failing to reach Natasha, he rushed to her residence where he, along with her flatmates, discovered her unresponsive in her room. Despite prompt medical assistance, Natasha was pronounced dead at the scene.
Less than a month after Natasha’s demise, Tom, a resident of Appley Bridge near Wigan, ended his own life in woodland near Dalton in West Lancashire. An inquest into Natasha’s death revealed that she had been battling post-traumatic stress following an incident in Abu Dhabi a year prior. Toxicology tests indicated fatal levels of morphine in her system at the time of her demise.
The coroner’s report highlighted the presence of drug paraphernalia in Natasha’s room, suggesting heroin use. The conclusion of a drug-related death was reached, emphasizing Natasha’s promising future and the profound impact of her loss on those who knew her. Following her passing, Lancaster University initiated an online memorial book where friends and acquaintances expressed their grief and shared fond memories of Natasha as a kind, talented, and vibrant individual.
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