Dental Records Used To Identify Hull Man Who Commited Suicide After Abuse Allegations
Dental records have been used to identify the body of a Hull man who committed suicide after he was falsely accused of child abuse.
Police believe Graham Smith, 56, took his own life in June; Mr Smith jumped from the Humber Bridge and his body was found five days later. The body was in such bad condition after being immersed in the water for so long that dental records were needed to confirm the identity.
Last year, Mr Smith was accused of sexually abusing a young girl in an incident, which happened more than 20 years ago, but he was cleared of the charges following a police investigation. Despite the fact that the charges were dropped, Graham’s brother, Michael said that he never really recovered and he suffered from depression in the months after the case.
Michael said that his brother became a recluse after the accusations and was afraid to go out in the daylight; he rarely left the house and the family was shocked, but very pleased to see him at a barbecue to celebrate Father’s Day just a few days before he died. Michael said at the time everyone thought that things were looking up and Graham was feeling more positive, but now it seems that he wanted the opportunity to see everyone one last time.
Police have confirmed that Graham had already attempted suicide before he left a note at his home in the city centre and cycled to the Humber Bridge to take his life. He had a teenage daughter and his former girlfriend, Marie Burgess, said that he had tried to cope with depression and move on, but found life very tough. His daughter, Kirsty, said that he had changed and lacked motivation.
Coroner, Dr Paul Marks, confirmed the cause of death as chest injuries, which resulted from the fall from the bridge. The body had been in the water for so long that dental records were required.
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