A woman who reportedly took her own life due to her husband’s actions confided in an old school acquaintance, revealing that he had strangled her with a belt while sexually assaulting her. Carina Silva testified that Tarryn Baird was highly distressed as she recounted the alleged assault by Christopher Trybus.
Trybus, aged 43, is accused of contributing to his wife’s death through a series of manipulative behaviors and sexual violence. Baird, 34, was found hanged at their residence in Swindon, Wilts. Silva informed the court that Baird had disclosed being struck 25 times by Trybus in their tumultuous relationship, leaving her friend feeling empty inside.
Silva and Baird had become friends while playing hockey together in South Africa. Their friendship endured until Baird tragically ended her life on November 28, 2017. Describing Baird’s relationship with Trybus as hostile, Silva mentioned that Baird often expressed fear towards him, detailing instances of abuse and profanity.
Baird shared with Silva details of the alleged assault after a celebratory meeting at Paddington train station in London. She recounted how Trybus had become enraged, leading to a violent altercation where he raped her and strangled her with a belt, causing immense pain and physical discomfort.
Silva encouraged Baird to document the abuse in a diary for future reference. Reflecting on the impact of the abuse, Silva described how Baird transformed from a joyful individual into a shell of her former self. The court also learned about Baird’s struggles with PTSD following traumatic events in South Africa, which further affected her well-being.
Trybus, an IT consultant, faces charges of manslaughter, controlling behavior, and rape. Denying the allegations, he claimed that the injuries observed on Baird were a result of consensual rough sex. Testimonies revealed that Baird had reached out for help before her tragic demise, indicating her distress and mental health struggles.
The trial is ongoing as the court examines the evidence and testimonies surrounding Baird’s untimely death.
