An individual described as an exceptional father who devoted himself to his beloved family tragically ended his own life at a playground, as revealed in an inquest.
Terry Howe, aged 47, was discovered unresponsive in the play area of Boscawen Park in Truro, Cornwall, during the early hours of August 8. Testimony at the inquest held in Pydar House, Truro, highlighted that Terry, a forklift driver known for his willingness to assist others, had been battling low spirits in the weeks leading up to his passing.
His spouse and stepdaughter disclosed that Terry exhibited increased paranoia following drug consumption during a night out but had seemed content spending time with his family the night before his demise.
Comments from Terry’s mother and sister shared during the inquest described him as a compassionate individual who was always ready to offer help, emphasizing his role as a remarkable husband and a dedicated family man.
Expressing their memories of Terry’s warmth and generosity, his family recalled his infectious smile and the joy he brought into their lives. Terry’s wife, Danielle Howe, praised his work ethic as a forklift driver, highlighting his unwavering dedication and positive demeanor in their marriage.
Despite being in a good place with his mental health and relationships, Terry’s well-being deteriorated after reporting an assault during his time as a patient at the Royal Cornwall Hospital. His family revealed that he had expressed suicidal thoughts prior to the tragic event.
On the night of August 8, Terry left the house after preparing a meal for his son and did not return. His family found him unresponsive in the children’s play area of Boscawen Park, prompting emergency services to respond and attempt resuscitation.
Authorities involved in the case stated that there was no indication of external involvement or suspicious circumstances. The senior coroner for Cornwall and Isle of Scilly, Andrew Cox, concluded that Terry had deliberately taken his own life, attributing his decision to a combination of deteriorating mental health and drug use.
In light of the findings, the coroner officially ruled the cause of death as suicide.
