A married couple was found dead in their home in an apparent double suicide pact.
The duo was dealing with several difficulties as revealed during an inquest convened at the Coroners Court in Exeter.
Cassie Collins, 35, and Francis Collins, 36, from Cullompton, Devon, UK, had carried out several deliberate actions leading up to their deaths, such as drawing up a joint will and sending letters and emails. Cassie’s sister, Jodie, revealed that they had earlier communicated their intentions to end their lives. On September 11, 2021, Cassie sent a letter to her sister, expressing her apologies for being unable to bear the pain she was experiencing.
Upon arriving at their residence, the authorities found Cassie in bed, lifeless, holding three of their deceased dogs – a Chihuahua and two Miniature Pinschers. Francis was found in the hallway. As recalled by Jodie, Cassie had previously mentioned that if they decided to take their lives, they would also euthanize their dogs, unwilling to leave them in the care of others. The couple, incapable of having children due to Cassie’s persistent pain, considered their dogs as their own offspring.
The pair’s problems were compounded by a new police inquiry opened against Francis, who had previously spent time in prison due to an incident involving homemade incendiary devices. Cassie, a nurse trainee, suffered from chronic pain due to knee and shoulder injuries, which had rendered her bedridden and incapable of employment. The mothers of the couple testified at the inquest, expressing their belief that Cassie’s pain, prior troubles, and the continuing police inquiry led to the tragic decision.
The inquest disclosed that both Cassie and Francis had reached out for mental health assistance. Francis, known to have depression and anxiety, was diagnosed with severe psychotic depression and was under the supervision of a community mental health team. The police investigation established that there was no involvement of a third party or any suspicious circumstances.
The coroner concluded the inquest by officially declaring both deaths as suicides and acknowledged the profound loss the family was enduring.
