An inquest has heard distressing details surrounding the death of Kerri-Anne Donaldson, a dancer who reached the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent in 2014. The 38-year-old was found dead at her home in Farnborough, Hampshire, on June 7, 2023, just days after being arrested on suspicion of a sexual offence.
Complainant's Statement Reveals Self-Harm Threat
Detective Constable Benjamin Harris of Hampshire Constabulary testified at Winchester Coroner's Court that the complainant in the case reported Donaldson had spoken of taking her own life if the allegation became public. When questioned by coroner Jason Pegg, Det Con Harris confirmed the complainant stated Donaldson said she would kill herself "if someone finds out" about the accusation.
Police Response and Risk Assessment
Det Con Harris explained that he considered whether Donaldson's comments might represent "a form of control" against the complainant. He noted that in his experience, such threats are sometimes made without genuine intent to follow through. Nonetheless, he reported the concern to senior officers and advised colleagues who subsequently arrested Donaldson on June 4.
Following Donaldson's interview at Basingstoke police station, where she denied the offence, Det Con Harris graded her risk of self-harm as "standard." He stated: "When I spoke to Kerri, which was after the interview, in the cell she presented to me at that time that she was fine, so normal. She had no indication that she wanted to take her own life."
Sequence of Tragic Events
After her release, Donaldson went missing and was found at a hotel in Woking, Surrey, where she had taken an overdose. She was taken to hospital and discharged, only to be found hanged at her Farnborough home the following day. A post-mortem examination confirmed death by hanging, with non-fatal levels of medication in her blood consistent with an overdose.
Reflecting on the case, Det Con Harris acknowledged that "with the benefits of hindsight" he should have included the complainant's comments in Donaldson's risk assessment. He emphasized that police powers to detain someone are limited to cases where they present an "imminent" danger to themselves.
Tributes from Dance Community
Donaldson performed on Britain's Got Talent as part of the dance group Kings and Queens, alongside future Strictly Come Dancing professionals Kai Widdrington and Neil and Katya Jones. Following her death, tributes poured in from the dance world.
Neil Jones described Donaldson as "like a big sister," writing on social media: "Kerri Anne Donaldson- remember that name and please never forget it because it belongs to a woman who loved to dance, create and perform, she had the cheekiest laugh and a heart of gold."
Former Strictly professional Kevin Clifton expressed his heartbreak, recalling: "I've known Kerri since we were kids and she was always the loveliest girl. A friend and a dance partner. I'm glad we got to dance together this xmas."
Ongoing Inquest Proceedings
The inquest continues to examine the circumstances surrounding Donaldson's death. The hearing has highlighted complex issues around mental health assessments and police procedures when dealing with individuals facing serious allegations.
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