Mystery hanging tragedy of Burnley boy Michael (12)

A 12-YEAR-OLD Burnley boy who hanged himself with a bicycle chain was not subjected to “consistent” bullying, an inquest heard.

Michael Raven, who was a pupil at St Wilfred’s School, Blackburn, was found hanging in his bedroom at his home in Longworth Avenue, Brunshaw, in November last year.

A statement from his mum, Susan, was read out at the inquest, in which she described Michael as a “beautiful boy” who always did well at school and who was excited about the future.

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Detailing the day he died, she said: “He caught the bus to school. We had spoken about getting him new shoes and he seemed excited as his favourite author was coming to school the next day.

“He came home from school and nothing seemed unusual. He said he was going to his room to get changed.”

Michael, who had been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, was found at 5-20 p.m.

Det. Insp. Derry Crorken said a full investigation had been undertaken into Michael’s death which had included speaking to his friends and staff at school.

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“There was nothing to suggest Michael was the subject of consistent bullying and nothing specific happened on November 28th either,” he said. “There had been a lot of chatter about bullying on Facebook, people putting two and two together and getting far bigger numbers. The school knew about these incidents and they had been dealt with. Michael had spoken about them.

“He had just been given a part in a play which he had really wanted and was looking forward to a school ski-ing trip in January.”

East Lancashire Coroner Mr Richard Taylor said Michael’s mum best summed things up in her statement when she said: “I cannot understand what happened to my beautiful boy that afternoon. I am absolutely baffled. Michael had everything to live for and I cannot believe he intended to take his own life.”

Mr Taylor went on to record a narrative verdict saying: “Michael Raven suspended himself in his bedroom with a bicycle chain. There was no indication he intended to take his own life.”

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