A coroner has ruled that 18-year-old Christopher Koppany, who went missing last August, prompting a major search, took his own life after carrying out online research into drowning.
Christopher, a student from Ryde who had just received his A-Level results, was found dead at 08:30 on 24th August 2024 on the shoreline near Ryde after a search operation had been launched 2 days earlier.
The teenager had last been seen on the evening of Thursday 22nd August, and left a note to say that he had gone for a late-night swim. When he failed to return home, a police-led search was launched with the assistance of HM Coastguard and WightSAR.
In total, the search operation involved 8 lifeboats, 5 Coastguard Rescue Teams, WightSAR, Police, a Police boat and a Coastguard helicopter. Tragically, Christopher’s body was discovered the following morning.
In a Section 9C (in writing) inquest, Senior Coroner Caroline Sumeray noted that Christopher had been undertaking internet searches on subjects including suicide, drowning and death.
It was determined that Christopher had also taken deliberate steps to weigh himself down before entering the water, and the coroner therefore recorded a conclusion of suicide.
If you are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, you can call The Samaritans in confidence on 116 123. Help is at hand when you need it - you don’t have to be suicidal to get in touch.
How tragic. I’m sorry the lad couldn’t find another way out of his sadness & desperation. RIP