A 'devoted' elderly couple made a tragic suicide pact, choosing to end their lives together by jumping from cliffs in Whitby, an inquest has concluded.
A Final Journey Together
The bodies of David Jeffcock, 80, and his 74-year-old wife Susan were discovered on rocks at the base of East Cliff near Whitby Abbey on July 30. A member of the public initially found a mobile phone and jacket at the cliff top before spotting the couple below.
Both were pronounced dead at the scene, with the Coastguard helicopter airlifting their bodies. The coroner confirmed the cause of death for both was multiple traumatic injuries.
Health Struggles and Heartbreaking Decision
The hearing at Northallerton Coroner's Court learned that Mr Jeffcock had been suffering from bone cancer and his health had significantly deteriorated. He had visited Accident and Emergency three times earlier in the year, including for acute onset headaches and shortness of breath.
In a statement read to the court, Mr Jeffcock's nephew Kevin Shepherd said: "I was shocked to hear of their passing and in such circumstances. I can only conclude he was in so much pain he didn't want to keep deteriorating."
Detective Inspector Jenkinson of North Yorkshire Police revealed that a folded jacket, weighed down with a brick, had been left at the cliff top 'as some sort of marker', indicating preparation before the jump. He suggested it was possible Mr Jeffcock jumped first and his wife 'may have hesitated before following'.
A Life of Devotion
The couple had sent a letter to their solicitor explicitly stating their intention to end their lives together, the inquest heard. Mr Shepherd described his uncle as a 'lovely man who lived a good life', having grown up in Sheffield before moving to Australia as a '10-pound pom'.
Upon returning to the UK, David met and married Susan, described as 'the love of his life'. The couple decided not to have children and instead 'lived well together', travelling the world during their holidays.
Mr Jeffcock worked as a taxi driver for many years, while Mrs Jeffcock was a secretary at Stanley Tools. They fulfilled their dream of retiring to the coast, moving to Whitby - one of their favourite places - where they lived in a flat above the harbour.
Mr Shepherd added about Susan's decision: "Although she was younger, Susan chose to join David. That to me shows their devotion."
Inquest Conclusion
Senior North Yorkshire coroner Jonathan Leach recorded a conclusion of suicide for both David and Susan Jeffcock. He noted the couple had no history of mental health issues but that Mr Jeffcock had significant physical health problems.
The coroner confirmed that police investigations found no third party involvement and that the couple's actions appeared to be the result of a carefully considered joint decision.
