Christopher Wakeman died when he fell from the Quinton flyover bridge

by Hayley Robinson

The mother of bridge fall victim Christopher Wakeman says she believes the autism sufferer intended to take his own life.

Catherine Butters was speaking after Coroner Patricia Harding recorded a narrative verdict into the 23-year-old's death today.

An inquest heard how Mr Wakeman had suffered critical injuries after falling from the Quinton flyover bridge on to the A249.

It happened after he escaped from nearby Byfield Care Home, in Sheppey Way, Bobbing, when a member of staff left her keys in a lounge where he was alone.

At the conclusion of witness statements last Wednesday, Mrs Harding said her options were to record suicide, accidental death or narrative verdicts.

She was also to consider the possible use of a Rule 43 Report, which could be drawn up to ask the authorities to take action to "prevent further death" at Byfield.

However, delivering her verdict this morning, she said could not be satisfied that Mr Wakeman intended to take his own life.

She also decided against a Rule 43 as she was satisfied the home had and was implementing policies to prevent such an incident happening again.

Speaking afterwards, Minster resident Mrs Butters said: "I suppose deep down I understand why she (Mrs Harding) couldn't give a suicide verdict, but I do believe Christopher wanted out of the autism.

"I don't think he fell at all. I'm his mum - I know he'd had enough of it. I am not angry with him; I am angry with the home for letting this happen."

For a full report, see this Friday's Sittingbourne Messenger.

Catherine Butters believes her son Christopher Wakeman killed himself