Former rugby league star Ricky Bibey subjected his partner Jennie Platt to a brutal assault in a Florence hotel room before being found dead, an inquest has heard. The 48-year-old former Wigan Warriors player died of neck compression on July 16, 2022, at the Continentale Hotel.
Attack Left Partner with Life-Changing Injuries
Ms Platt, an estate agent, told Rochdale Coroners' Court she sustained life-changing injuries requiring multiple surgeries and intensive care. She described how Bibey, who stood 6ft 2in and weighed almost 19 stone, attacked her after a night of drinking and drug use.
During the altercation, Ms Platt said Bibey's eyes became glazed and 'it was like a demon'. She recalled fighting back but losing consciousness. When she woke on the bathroom floor, she saw Bibey hanging with a ligature around his neck.
Drug and Alcohol Use Preceded Attack
The inquest heard Bibey had a history of mental health issues and drug dependency after retiring from rugby. He had attended rehab at Sporting Chance clinic, founded by ex-Arsenal star Tony Adams, and a private clinic in Bolton. However, he suffered relapses.
Ms Platt said Bibey had gone on 'a bender' before the Italy trip. She initially decided not to travel but changed her mind after he displayed a noose in his flat. In Florence, he bought prosecco, drank most of it, and disappeared to buy drugs, she claimed.
Pathologist Could Not Determine Cause of Neck Compression
Pathologist Dr Charles Wilson confirmed the cause of death as neck compression but said he could not determine whether it was self-inflicted or caused by another person. He noted a 'perplexing' pattern of ligature marks that did not suggest self-suspension hanging.
Toxicology tests found cocaine in Bibey's system, though the quantity 'wasn't high', and alcohol. Italian police initially treated the case as potential murder but later decided not to pursue action against Ms Platt, concluding she was too injured to have exerted the force needed.
Open Verdict Recorded
Assistant Coroner Lisa Judge recorded an open verdict, stating that while Bibey placed the ligature around his own neck, it was not clear whether he intended to end his life. She found Ms Platt had been subjected to serious violence and acted in self-defence.
Judge said Bibey's consumption of drugs and alcohol 'significantly impacted his personality and judgement'. She described his behaviour as 'irrational and confused', markedly different from his usual presentation.
Family Describe a 'Happy-Go-Lucky' Youngster
Bibey's father, Ronald, told the inquest his son was a 'very happy child' with a 'natural flair for rugby'. He signed for Wigan Warriors at 14 and later played for Leigh Centurions, St Helens, and Wakefield Trinity, winning the Challenge Cup twice.
After retiring due to a ruptured Achilles tendon, his mental health declined. 'Ricky was very much loved and adored by his family and friends,' his father said. 'We can never put into words just how loved he was and how proud he made us.'
