An inquest has heard the tragic account of a father who watched his son shoot himself in the head. Simon Keeping, former managing director of Karcher UK, saw the moment his adopted son James Keeping, 25, died from an air pistol wound at their family home in Oxfordshire, valued at £1.5 million.
Background of James Keeping
James was adopted as a young child by Simon and his wife Christine, 63. He was born in Austin, Texas, and was the couple's only son. James had been battling mental health issues, exacerbated by difficulties starting a career after graduating from Newcastle University in 2024 with a degree in marketing and management. He took short-term jobs at a delicatessen and a mushroom farm, and actively sought employment on LinkedIn.
In a LinkedIn post, James wrote: “I know I don't have a long CV yet, but I'm willing, motivated, and not afraid to get stuck in. I've shown I can adapt and persevere, whether that was working on earthquake relief efforts in Nepal or supporting conservation diving projects in Mexico. Those experiences taught me to stay grounded, stay curious, and never take opportunities for granted. More than anything, I'm looking for a role where I can learn, contribute, and grow. If you're hiring, or if you're happy to share any advice with someone just starting out, I'd genuinely appreciate it.”
Shortly before James's death, his father also posted a request on his behalf, writing: “Call it nepotism, but I would love to give my son James that break. If you wouldn't mind sharing with your networks I know he and I would really appreciate it.”
The Incident
On the day of his death, James had been drinking and was argumentative. His father told Oxford Coroner’s Court that he did not believe James intended to kill himself, as the weapon was an air pistol, not typically associated with fatalities. Mr Keeping said: “He got the air pistol out, went 'Ha!' and put it to his head. There was a bang, and everything went silent. I don't believe that he meant to take his own life. Common sense said that this modified air pistol wouldn't have worked, but it did.”
An ambulance was called, but James was already dead. Toxicology reports showed he had 234mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, nearly three times the drink-drive limit. The court also heard that James had been a member of a shooting club and previously held a shotgun licence, but gave it up after being diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and anxiety. Mr Keeping said James had a tendency to become 'hyper-fixated' on things and had taken an interest in modifying air pistols, including the one that killed him.
Inquest Verdict
Coroner Nicholas Graham said there was insufficient evidence to conclude that James intended to take his own life, so he could not record a verdict of suicide. However, he also could not record an accidental death, and delivered a narrative verdict.
If you are struggling with mental health, you can call the Samaritans free at any time from any phone on 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day. You can also email jo@samaritans.org.
