Darren Taylor, a father of two, tragically died from an overdose just days after securing housing.
Sutton: A dad named Darren Taylor, who had been homeless for months, finally got a flat. Sadly, he died from a drug overdose just days later. His family said he was trying to get his life back on track.
At the inquest, it was revealed that Darren had been spending time at a local center to stay warm and charge his phone. He had faced many struggles, including mental health issues, but his family insisted he wasn’t suicidal.
Just weeks before his death, Darren shared how tough it was to sleep rough. He spent Christmas last year in an alley, listening to his family celebrate nearby. That experience hit him hard and made him want to change.
After some ups and downs, he started visiting a local café for warmth and support. The staff there helped him feel welcomed, and he began to open up about his struggles.
By summer, he was actively involved in community events, even helping out at the local church. He wanted to reconnect with his kids and give back to the community.
However, finding a stable place to live was a constant challenge for him. After his story was shared publicly, he was offered a flat in Pollards Hill, which felt like a fresh start.
Tragically, just days after moving in, Darren was found dead at a friend’s house. The inquest revealed he had high levels of drugs in his system, including a powerful synthetic opioid.
His passing has left a mark on the community, reminding everyone of the struggles many face with addiction and homelessness. Darren’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life can be.
