Thomas Kingston, tragically deceased at the age of 45, had been dealing with acute financial strain prior to his death by suicide in February 2024. Reports suggest that Kingston, married to Lady Gabriella Kingston, was battling anxiety and had recently experienced an adverse reaction to sleep medication, ultimately resulting in self-inflicted gunshot wounds. His death occurred at his family’s home in the Cotswolds, where authorities discovered a firearm near his body.
The inquest into his passing revealed that he had ceased taking his medication shortly before his death. At the time of his death, Kingston's business, Devonport Capital Ltd, was grappling with significant debts, amounting to almost £50 million, as it was actively pursuing the recovery of bad debts. Developments last week outlined that Devonport owed creditors £29.5 million and fell into administration, leading to discussions of potential legal action from some of its creditors.
Further investigation showed that Kingston and his business partner struggled to repay debts after two major borrowers, with combined liabilities of around £48 million, defaulted on their loans. Founded in 2015, Devonport Capital Ltd specialized in financing high-risk ventures such as projects in Iraq, and had a diverse range of creditors including a gold mine in Ghana and an American renewable energy firm.
Lady Gabriella Kingston voiced her concerns about the mental health medications during her husband’s inquest, emphasizing the need for awareness regarding side effects for individuals taking such drugs. Evidence presented indicated that Kingston had been prescribed sertraline for anxiety and zopiclone for sleep issues but had chosen to stop these medications. The senior coroner, Katy Skerrett, highlighted the dangers associated with these medications, stressing that similar circumstances could happen to anyone who is unaware of the risks involved. For those in need of support, confidential services such as the Samaritans are available.
6 Comments
BuggaBoom
Let’s honor Thomas’ memory by advocating for mental health awareness and support services.
Loubianka
Rest in peace, Thomas. I hope we can talk more openly about these battles people face.
Noir Black
Such a tragic loss reminds us all to be kinder to those who might be struggling silently.
BuggaBoom
Sertraline and zopiclone are not demonized for no reason; there are risks involved that need to be considered.
Katchuka
I feel sorry for the family, but the point is that suicide is not an answer to financial stress.
Habibi
Why didn’t he seek professional help more actively? This tragedy could have been prevented.