A young boy from Newton Aycliffe who struggled with social anxiety died just days before returning to school after Christmas through 'misadventure'.

Jack Jose, 13, had just started secondary school and returned home for the winter break.

Crook Coroners Court heard how during his time at home he seemed happier than ever.

Jack was diagnosed with autism a couple of years ago and had struggled with social anxiety.

Karis Mackenzie, his mum, told the coroner in a statement that despite previous struggles with school he seemed okay about returning.

On the night of January 1, 2023, it was heard that Jack played video games late and then watched Youtube.

The next day his mother came into his bedroom and found him dead in his room.

A post-mortem report found that he had died of asphyxia.

Assistant Coroner Janine Richards heard from police officers, mental health workers and a walker who helped the family to try to understand the circumstances of his death.

Gary Brown was walking his dog past the house when Karis came running out of the house screaming.

He said: "At 4.10pm I heard a scream. About 10 seconds later a woman who I have never seen before came running out of a house.

"She was hysterical and asking if I could help her son.

"The woman handed me a mobile phone and told me that there were ambulance workers on the phone.

"I checked the rooms as I didn't know where he was."

Despite following the instructions of ambulance workers there was nothing Mr Brown could do.

From the time he entered the house and left it only five minutes passed.

Jack's grandfather, Stephen Mackenzie, thanked the emergency service workers who were at the house and those who had worked with the family since.

He said: "I would like to thank everybody involved throughout the whole ordeal we have gone through.

"Everybody has been very helpful.

"On behalf of our family I would like to thank you (the coroner)."

Ms Mackenzie said: "Although Jack had his difficulties in life he was a lovely child.

"These last few months he really matured. He had a great group of friends.

"I did not expect this at all."

Assistant Coroner Richards decided that there was no evidence to suggest any intention from Jack to end his life.

She said: "His intention at the time cannot be ascertained. 

"As a result of these findings that I am making, I am going to come to a short form conclusion of misadventure.

"I couldn't be satisfied on the balance of probabilities.

"It seems to me that things were going well for him at the time of these events.

"It was a risky action that he took.

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"I want to pass on my sincerest condolences to you all (family members involved).

"I am so very sorry for your loss."

If you are in need of support you can contact the following:

  • Samaritans is available, day or night, 365 days of the year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
  • If U Care Share on 0191 387 5661 or text IUCS to 85258
  • SANE on 07984 967 708, Calm on 0800 58 58 58
  • Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust crisis line 0800 0516 171.