Inquest opens into death of Sunderland teenager Thomas Brookes

An inquest has opened into the death of a Sunderland teenager found at his home.
By Kevin Clark
Published 23rd Jan 2020, 06:00 GMT
Thomas Brookes and with mum Helen Wardropper (left) and aunt Cheryl CogginsThomas Brookes and with mum Helen Wardropper (left) and aunt Cheryl Coggins
Thomas Brookes and with mum Helen Wardropper (left) and aunt Cheryl Coggins

Thomas Brookes was found dead by mum Helen Wardropper at the home they shared in Westheath Avenue, Grangetown, on Saturday, September 28 last year.

Helen tried desperately to save him but was unable to do so.

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An inquest into Thomas’ death was opened at Sunderland Corner’s Court this month.

Assistant Coroner Karin Welsh adjourned the hearing for a pre-inquest review on March 11.

Speaking after the hearing, Thomas’ mum said she hopes an inquest will look at support for young people with mental health problems in Sunderland.

She said: “I can’t ever bring Thomas back but I see other young people in vulnerable positions and I want to help them.

“As a parent who has lived with this, I am the best person to speak to.”

Related topics:Sunderland