UK family’s ‘worst nightmare’ after 12-year-old son dies in suspected suicide

By Max Stephens

Daily Telegraph UK·

5 Sep, 2024 03:02 AM2 mins to read

Riley Townsend was a keen footballer. Several clubs will hold a minute's silence for him at their next match. Photo / GoFundMe

WARNING: This story deals with suicide and may be distressing.

A 12-year-old boy is believed to have taken his own life in what has been described as his family’s “worst nightmare”.

Riley Townsend, from Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, was described by his family as a “cheeky chappy, a proper lad, polite and kind” after his death on September 1.

Matt Townsend, his father, confirmed the death of his son, writing online: “Miss you son so bad. I will never forget you. This is killing me.”

Riley, a keen footballer who played for Kirkby Colts FC and Terversal FC, was said to have “had enough” following problems with his mental health.

Photos from his family’s social media pages show dozens of floral tributes and blue balloons left outside his school.

Many well-wishers appear to have written messages on the balloons, as well as leaving cards and gifts.

Several local football clubs have announced that they will hold a minute’s silence ahead of games this weekend.

‘Very painful time’

Jodie Draycott, Riley’s cousin, told Nottinghamshire Live: “At the minute, his parents have got a lot going on but they’re overwhelmed by the support. He’d been struggling with mental health issues for a long time. Unfortunately, Riley had had enough and it got to this point.”

Draycott has launched a GoFundMe Page to cover the cost of his funeral.

The page reached £11,855 ($25,160) on Wednesday afternoon, nearly four times its original target of £3000.

Draycott wrote: “I’m trying to raise funds for a family that are going through their worst nightmare.

“It’s very sad and tragic that their 12yr old boy took his own life due to mental health issues, they are afraid they can’t afford and give him the send off he deserves.

“We are asking people to find it in their hearts to help this family through this very painful time, any amount given will be highly appreciated. Thank you.”

Nottinghamshire Police and East Midlands Ambulance Service have been approached for comment.