A Swindon woman who assaulted two paramedics in an attack captured in a viral video has died aged 28.
Vanessa Jayne Blakey, known as Ness, died on December 18, 2024, and her inquest concluded at Wiltshire and Swindon Coroner’s Court last month.
HM Area Coroner Ian Singleton recorded a narrative conclusion after looking at evidence regarding the circumstances of her death.
The 28-year-old had a complex medical history of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Autistic Spectrum Disorder and epilepsy, which had been present for many years.
She took medication and had been treated on a psychiatric ward in times of crisis.
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The court heard that there was a period of stability in 2022 and 2023, but Ness’s condition deteriorated when she was informed that someone who had harmed her was due to be released from prison early.
On December 17, Ness contacted the police advising of an intent to harm herself and she was later found and taken to Great Western Hospital.
Mr Singleton’s conclusion said: “On being advised that she would have to wait to see a Doctor, Ness left in the early hours of December 18, 2024.
“Ness then phoned the police and ambulance service advising that she intended to take her own life.”
Police and paramedics tried to find the distressed woman, but she passed away before help arrived.
The coroner recorded that death was due to a “self-inflicted act”, adding: “On the evidence, it was not possible to determine more likely than not, whether Ness intended the consequences of her action.”
Anyone struggling with their mental health can contact the Samaritans on their 24-hour helpline 116 123 or find further resources online at www.samaritans.org
The South West Ambulance Service’s video of bodycam footage which featured Vanessa Blakey went viral in February 2023 after she pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm without intent and assault by beating of an emergency worker.
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In March 2022, paramedic Nick Brown was punched, knocked unconscious and left with a broken eye socket after he and student paramedic Callum – who was kicked and suffered broken ribs - responded to a 999 call to help Ms Blakey.
The defendant received a 12-month prison sentence which was suspended for two years and would normally have been activated when she committed further offences in December 2023 by assaulting two police officers.
Instead, magistrates took her guilty plea and mental health into account, ordering her to pay fines and costs totalling £150.
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