Inquest Hears Tragic Story of 'Loving Son' Who Died by Suicide
A 'loving and caring' 30-year-old man tragically took his own life after a decade-long struggle with mental health issues, a coroner's court has been told. Tyran Jones was found unresponsive at his flat in Northfield on Mother's Day last year, March 30.
Family Feels 'Failed' by NHS System
His devastated parents, Tina and Steve Jones, spoke outside Birmingham Coroner's Court about feeling "failed" by the NHS after years of repeated calls for help from various professionals. "If he received the help he needed, our loving son and brother would be here now," his mother Tina told the inquest on Thursday, February 26.
Tyran had battled mental health problems since age 14, including depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, Asperger's, and a learning disability. The court heard he had attempted suicide seven times previously.
Final Days Before Tragedy
Less than a week before his death, on March 24, Tyran told his GP, Dr. Ellis Hamilton, that he had taken an overdose the previous weekend, had a "variable mood," and "did not want to live due to ongoing problems in his life." He was particularly anxious about an upcoming operation concerning infertility.
After what was described as a "successful" operation, Tyran was reviewed by the home treatment team consultant, Dr. Ilemobayo Fapohunda, on March 27. The consultant told the court this was "the best I had actually seen him" and that Tyran appeared "positive" and "bright."
He was discharged back to the community mental health team with a review scheduled within two weeks. Tragically, just days later on March 30, he was found dead at his home.
'Masking' Symptoms and Missed Warnings
The inquest heard that Tyran had a tendency to 'mask' his feelings when speaking with professionals, making it difficult for clinicians to assess his true risk. Assistant Coroner Ian Dreelan noted this masking behavior, along with Tyran's "peaks and troughs" in mood, created challenges for those trying to help him.
"Many times he would look you in the eye and tell you calmly he was going to kill himself," his mother told the court. "His suicidal attempts became a normal thing for us. Specialists didn't take him seriously."
Multiple Referrals Ignored
In the days before his death, the court heard that four referrals expressing concerns for his safety were made, including one from Clarion Housing and another from MP Preet Gill. However, the MP's email was sent after 4pm on a Friday and wasn't picked up until Monday—by which time Tyran had already taken his life.
Dr. Hamilton explained that during his March 24 consultation, he didn't conclude Tyran was "at imminent risk of suicide" because there was evidence of future planning in the form of his scheduled operation.
Coroner's Findings and Family's Campaign
Assistant Coroner Ian Dreelan concluded that Tyran died from suicide. He offered condolences to the family while acknowledging they would likely continue searching for answers.
Tina Jones paid emotional tribute to her son at the inquest opening: "He was the most loving, caring and non-judgemental person. Everybody loved him. He used to feed the homeless, he wanted to help people but he couldn't get help himself."
The family has started a petition calling for better mental health safeguarding and changes to the support system. "All the care and support was placed upon the family, especially mum, to deal with," Tina Jones told the court. "This has been escalating over the last two years, and it has torn our family apart."
If you are struggling with mental health issues, support is available through Samaritans 24/7 at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org.
