A young girl ended her life after requesting to visit a reservoir with her father, an inquiry revealed. Qudsiyah Mahmood, a 13-year-old from Halifax, West Yorkshire, asked her father, who was unwell, to take her to Baitings Reservoir near Ripponden, promising good performance in her upcoming school exams. However, the Bradford Coroner’s Court found out that her request was deceptive.
The teenager, who was struggling with her sexual orientation and gender identity, tragically passed away after falling from a parapet at the scenic location on May 28 around 1:20 pm. Assistant Coroner Caroline Chandler determined that what was initially believed to be an accidental fall was indeed a deliberate act of suicide.
Reports from Leeds Live indicated that Qudsiyah had been showing signs of poor mental health. Her autopsy revealed instances of self-harm, and messages she sent to friends on Snapchat before her demise hinted at her intentions to end her life. Despite being perceived as a bright and friendly individual by teachers and peers, she confided in her friends about her struggles with sexuality, gender, and religion, at times identifying as agnostic and genderfluid.
According to DI Laura Hall from West Yorkshire Police, prior to the incident, Qudsiyah had persistently urged her father to visit the reservoir, a place frequently visited by the family, located a short drive away from their home. Despite her father’s health concerns, they eventually went to the reservoir around midday after Qudsiyah promised to excel in her exams if he accompanied her.
During the visit, after taking photos by the water, the girl and her father walked to a bridge. DI Hall mentioned that moments before entering the water, Qudsiyah asked her father to capture videos. Mr. Mahmood recalled feeling uneasy and hearing a splash as he was a few steps ahead of her.
Initially considered an accident, the authorities later recovered Qudsiyah’s body using sonar technology, confirming her death by drowning through a post-mortem examination. Further investigation uncovered messages on Snapchat indicating Qudsiyah’s emotional distress and internal conflict regarding her identity and intentions.
Based on the gathered evidence, the inquest concluded that Qudsiyah’s death was a result of suicide. Summarizing the inquiry, HM Assistant Coroner Caroline Chandler highlighted the tragic exchange of messages that pointed towards her deliberate decision to end her life by entering the water.
Qudsiyah, born in Mirpur, Pakistan, attended Crossley Heath in Halifax. The school’s headteacher described her as a cheerful and amiable student who brought joy to the school community. Expressing condolences to her family, Headteacher Dean Jones emphasized their support during this difficult time.
For emotional assistance, the Samaritans helpline at 116 123 is available round the clock. Additionally, individuals can reach out via email or visit the Samaritans website.
