Tragic Loss of University Student and Boyfriend
A first-year fine art student at Lancaster University was found dead in her university accommodation, with her boyfriend tragically taking his own life less than a month later. The couple, described by friends as inseparable, have left a community in mourning.
Discovery of Natasha Braithwaite
Natasha Braithwaite, a 19-year-old undergraduate from Lincoln, was discovered unresponsive in her room at Bowland College on November 20 last year. Her boyfriend, Tom Dingle, had made plans to see her the previous night but fell asleep. Upon waking, he attempted to contact Natasha and, receiving no response, went to her halls of residence.
Tom managed to alert some of Natasha's flatmates, and they gained entry to her room, where they found her on the bed. Paramedics were called immediately, but Natasha was pronounced dead at the scene. She had only recently begun her course at Lancaster University but had already formed strong friendships, with peers praising her bubbly and kind personality.
Tom Dingle's Subsequent Suicide
Less than a month after Natasha's death, Tom Dingle, from Appley Bridge near Wigan, took his own life in woodland near Dalton in West Lancashire. The couple had met during a fresher's night, and Tom described Natasha in a statement to police as a very kind and extroverted girl. Their relationship was marked by deep connection, with friends noting they were inseparable.
Inquest Findings and Toxicology Results
An inquest into Natasha's death was held at Preston Coroners' Court on March 10. Assistant Coroner Sara Sutherland revealed that toxicology tests showed fatal levels of morphine in Natasha's system, likely from heroin use. The coroner noted evidence in her room, including a metal spoon taped to her desk and a bottle of lemon juice, commonly used to prepare heroin for injection.
It was also heard that Natasha had been struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder following an incident in Abu Dhabi in December the previous year. The coroner returned a conclusion of a drug-related death, expressing that Natasha was well-loved and would have been successful at university, calling the situation absolutely tragic.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Family
A family statement read out in court described Natasha as excited about starting university, with plans for the future, including writing a Christmas list. Friends shared emotional tributes in an online book of condolence opened by Lancaster University.
- One friend wrote: "She was a sweet, artistic, and talented girl, and my friends and I will be forever saddened by her loss."
- Another posted: "Tasha is the only person I've ever met that has a truly bubbly personality. Funny, compassionate, and so strong. We made plans that now will never happen."
- A flatmate added: "I truly don’t think I’ve ever met a soul as beautiful, gentle, and caring as hers. She always greeted me with the warmest smile."
- A childhood friend said: "Natasha was such a huge part of my early life. Her friendship shaped my childhood. She is a true friend and a beautiful human being, inside and out."
The coroner emphasized that Natasha was extremely well-liked and loved, highlighting the profound impact of her loss on those around her.
