Crawley mother jumped from M23 bridge

Julie Davis, 48, of The Canter, Pound Hill, who worked as an internet shopper, died on September 3, near the Maidenbower junction on the M23.

An inquest into her death was held at Parkside in Horsham today (Tuesday, February 23).

A statement from her family, read by coroner’s officer Chris Clinch, said: “Julie Davis was a very sociable caring lady who put everyone else first.”

However, after the birth of her second daughter Mrs Davis’ mental health deteriorated and she became anxious and lost her confidence.

Mrs Davis, who told professionals she sometimes had suicidal thoughts, was admitted to Langley Green Hospital on a number of occasions. Mr Clinch told the inquest Mrs Davis felt unable to cope after being discharged from the hospital.

In August 2014, Mrs Davis went home for the weekend but was upset because she had been told there may not be a bed for her to return to.

She also received support from community mental health teams.

A post mortem confirmed Mrs Davis died from multiple injuries.

Recording a conclusion of suicide, Penelope Schofield, coroner for West Sussex said: “Mrs Davis died on September 3, having deliberately jumped from the bridge above the M23. I’m satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that Julie Davis died taking her own life.”

She said Mrs Davis had left a suicide note. The inquest heard a full investigation into the care provided to Mrs Davis, was carried out by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Langley Green.

Mrs Schofield said: “The outcome of that report shows that there was no case relating to the hospital that played a part in the outcome of Julie Davis death.”

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