Woman found in car during storm took her own life

A WOMAN died after taking her own life during Storm Ciaran, an inquest heard, as her family raised questions as to why she was not given more support.

- By CARL EVE

The inquest into the death of 50-year-old Amanda McKeown was held at Exeter County Hall on September 24, by area coroner Nicholas Lane.

He noted how Amanda was found in a car submerged in the River Tavy at Lopwell Dam on the morning of November 2, 2023. Despite the efforts of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, police, HM Coastguard and paramedics, she was later confirmed deceased at Derriford Hospital at 11.30pm that same night. The cause of death was given as drowning.

The inquest heard how Amanda struggled with her mental health in the months leading up to her death, and her friends and loved ones had been trying to get her help.

At the time of the incident, the court heard the river was flowing fast and high following heavy rain from Storm Ciaran, which had battered Devon and Cornwall. The inquest heard that witnesses had seen her vehicle in the water, being dragged down stream by the current, with the windows open.

At the time police stated that Amanda was recovered from the car after it came to rest, partially submerged, and she was taken by boat to the shore where paramedics continued CPR.