UPDATE: A heartbreaking incident has unfolded in North Yorkshire, where an elderly couple tragically took their own lives by jumping from a cliff after one was diagnosed with cancer. David Jeffcock, 80, and his wife Susan, 74, were found on the rocks at East Cliff in Whitby on July 30, 2023, prompting an urgent inquest held today.
The couple’s devastating decision was confirmed through a letter sent to their solicitor, revealing their intentions before they were discovered. The inquest, conducted in Northallerton, highlighted the couple’s life together, emphasizing their deep devotion to one another.
Kevin Shepherd, Mr. Jeffcock’s nephew, revealed that his uncle had been suffering from painful bone cancer. He expressed his shock at the couple’s passing and noted that Susan, despite being younger, chose to join her husband in death. “That to me shows their devotion,” Shepherd stated.
The couple had relocated to Whitby after spending many years in Sheffield, fulfilling their dream of retiring to a coastal town. They lived in a flat above the harbor, enjoying a peaceful life together. Mr. Jeffcock, a former taxi driver, and Mrs. Jeffcock, who worked as a secretary, had traveled extensively during their holidays, choosing not to have children.
The inquest revealed alarming details surrounding their final moments. A member of the public discovered personal items at the cliff’s edge, leading authorities to the couple’s bodies. The cause of death was determined to be multiple traumatic injuries, with police suggesting that Mr. Jeffcock may have jumped first, followed by his wife.
Detective Inspector Jenkinson of North Yorkshire Police stated that a folded jacket, weighed down with a brick, was found at the cliff’s top, indicating premeditation. “This shows preparation prior to the jump,” he noted, adding that the couple had no previous history of mental health issues, but Mr. Jeffcock was dealing with significant physical health problems.
Coroner Jonathan Leach recorded a conclusion of suicide for both David and Susan Jeffcock. This tragic event raises important questions about mental health and the support available for those facing severe illness.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to Samaritans at 116 123, available 24 hours a day, or contact them via email at [email protected] for confidential support.
This story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassionate support for individuals facing life-threatening illnesses. As the community processes this tragic loss, conversations about mental health support are more critical than ever.
