A 27-year-old Nigerian mother-of-one in the United Kingdom died by suicide after enduring mental health struggles for 12 months, an inquest has concluded. Beatrice Solomon was found unresponsive at her home on Norris Road, Stanfield, Stoke-on-Trent, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Discovery by Husband
Her husband, 40-year-old Damian Michael Butler, had left for work at his delivery job at around 4:30 pm. He returned two hours later to use the toilet and made the heartbreaking discovery. PC Hinchliffe told the inquest that paramedics arrived shortly after, but Beatrice was sadly declared dead at the scene at 6:21 pm. Officers ruled out any third-party involvement.
Mental Health History
Damian testified that Beatrice had been struggling with her mental health for the past year due to ongoing issues with Stoke-on-Trent City Council. He later learned she had made two previous attempts on her life. Pathologist Dr Jones ruled that she died from oxygen deprivation.
Coroner's Conclusion
Coroner Li Hammond-Naylor concluded that Beatrice died as a result of suicide. “It is clear to me that Beatrice had researched and planned how to take her own life. I can only extend my sincere condolences to Beatrice’s family and friends,” she said.
Background
Beatrice, a carer, arrived in Stoke-on-Trent from Nigeria in November 2023. She leaves behind a son, as well as her siblings. The inquest highlighted the tragic impact of prolonged mental health struggles and the need for support systems for vulnerable individuals.
