Wirral teenager killed himself, inquest is told (From Wirral Globe)

Wirral teenager killed himself, inquest is told

4:40pm Thursday 16th August 2012 in News By Stephanie Cureton

A WIRRAL teenager took his own life after "storming out" of his home, an inquest was told.

Ian Peterson, of Elm Grove, Birkenhead, was found hanging in Mersey Park, Tranmere on May 15.

The hearing, which was held at Wallasey Town Hall this afternoon, was told how the 18-year-old suffered from Asperger Syndrome, ADHD and autism.

However he became "angry" with his mother after she told his girlfriend about his medical history.

Coroner’s officer Arthur Flower said: "At around 6pm that evening, Ian had been at the home of his mother with his 16-year-old girlfriend when a discussion had taken place in which she told his girlfriend about Asperger’s and ADHD.

"He became angry that his mother had disclosed his medical history and stormed out of the house, saying ‘I may as well hang myself.’

"His mother and girlfriend went out to look for him but could not find him."

Mr Flower added that later that same evening, an occupant of a third floor flat near Mersey Park looked out his window and spotted Ian near some trees.

But by 7.20pm, the noticed that he was still there and saw him hanging.

Paramedics attended but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Wirral coroner Christopher Johnson recorded a verdict Ian took is own life.

Following his death, his family paid tribute to the "centre of their world."

They said: “Starting life as an inquisitive affectionate child, unafraid to speak his mind or offer his unique perspective on life, Ian grew into a handsome, clever, no-nonsense and determined young man.

“Impulsive and fearless, Ian loved to try new things, from fishing and crabbing to horse riding and scuba driving.

"He also had a real passion for natural history. People enjoyed Ian’s company, something that he probably never knew or appreciated why."