Inquest Reveals BGT Star's Distress Over Allegation Before Death
The ongoing inquest into the death of former Britain's Got Talent star Kerri-Anne Donaldson has heard distressing testimony about her state of mind in the days leading up to her tragic passing. The 38-year-old dancer, who reached the semi-finals of the ITV show in 2014 as part of the group Kings and Queens, was found dead at her home in Farnborough, Hampshire, on June 7, 2023.
Arrest and Allegations Preceded Tragedy
Winchester Coroner's Court was told that Donaldson was arrested on June 4, 2023, and questioned at Basingstoke police station regarding a sexual offence allegation, which she firmly denied. Shortly after, she went missing and was discovered at a hotel in Woking, Surrey, where she had taken an overdose and required hospital treatment. Following her discharge, she was found deceased at her residence just one day later.
Detective Constable Benjamin Harris of Hampshire Constabulary, who led the investigation into the accusation, informed the inquest that the complainant had been interviewed on video. He stated that Donaldson had previously seen a counsellor and asserted she knew how to seek help, with no indication of self-harm intentions at that time. Harris emphasised that police lacked the authority to detain individuals unless they presented an imminent danger to themselves.
Mental Health Assessment Highlighted High Suicide Risk
In a pivotal moment of the hearing, psychiatric liaison nurse Serina Juru detailed her mental health assessment of Donaldson on June 5. Juru assessed her as being at a high and imminent risk of suicide, rating the danger as level 10 out of 10. She explained that Donaldson was very assertive about her desire to end her life if convicted and sentenced to prison.
She wanted to end her life because she was embarrassed about what had happened, Juru testified, underscoring the profound impact of the allegation on Donaldson's mental wellbeing. Despite offers of an informal hospital admission or home care support, Donaldson refused both options, prompting the initiation of a high-risk care plan.
Background and Legacy of the Performer
Kerri-Anne Donaldson gained public recognition through her appearance on Britain's Got Talent nearly a decade prior, showcasing her talents as part of the dance ensemble Kings and Queens. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, highlighting the severe pressures faced by public figures.
The inquest continues to examine the circumstances surrounding her passing, with further evidence expected to shed light on the events that led to this tragic outcome. This case raises critical questions about mental health support systems and the handling of sensitive allegations involving individuals in the spotlight.
