A young mother’s suicide note accuses her partner of driving her to take her life amid claims of domestic abuse
Fleetwood: A heartbreaking case has emerged in court where a young mother, Kiena Dawes, left a chilling suicide note blaming her partner, Ryan Wellings, for her death. The jury heard that she felt he was responsible for her tragic decision.
Wellings, 30, is facing manslaughter charges, accused of subjecting Kiena, 23, to years of domestic violence. The court learned that Kiena had written in her note, “I was murdered,” pointing directly at Wellings.
Just before her death on July 22, 2022, Kiena entrusted her eight-month-old daughter to a friend. This was after enduring two years of alleged abuse. The prosecution highlighted her note as a crucial piece of evidence, suggesting it reflected her truth from beyond the grave.
Paul Greaney, the prosecutor, argued that Kiena’s note was her way of saying that Wellings’ actions led her to feel she had no other option. He emphasized that her death was a direct result of his abusive behavior.
Throughout their relationship, it was claimed that Wellings had a pattern of controlling and abusive behavior that wore Kiena down. She had been diagnosed with an emotionally unstable personality disorder, which made her vulnerable, and the jury was told that Wellings took advantage of this.
Just 11 days before her death, Kiena was hospitalized due to a final assault by Wellings. The prosecutor painted a picture of Wellings as an aggressive bully, suggesting that his actions left Kiena feeling trapped and hopeless.
While Wellings denies the charges, claiming Kiena’s accusations are exaggerated, her mother described her as a troubled young woman who felt overwhelmed by multiple issues in her life.
The couple’s whirlwind romance began in January 2020, but it quickly turned dark. Kiena had told friends that what started as a fairytale became a nightmare filled with threats and violence.
As the trial continues, the court will further explore the dynamics of their relationship and the tragic circumstances surrounding Kiena’s death.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available. The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123 or through their website.
