Cops ‘forgot’ to tell us of suicide

Police failed to tell the family of a suicide victim about the tragedy for 12 days.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Nov 2011, 11:59 BST

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The body of 43-year-old Colin Buckley was found at his home in the Capital on October 17, but his family were not informed until October 29 after the police apparently “forgot” to break the news to them.

His sister Jackie, 44, from Juniper Green, posted a message of Facebook which read: “My brother Colin hanged himself and was found on October 17. But police only told us a few hours ago. I’m in bits. Totally devastated.”

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Colin took his own life days after the anniversary of the murder of his brother Richard, who was stabbed to death at a house in East Calder, West Lothian, during a weekend-long siege in October 2007.

Thomas Tant, 26, was charged with the killing, but was found dead in his cell while on remand at Saughton Prison awaiting trial, having overdosed on medication.

Mum-of-three Jackie said: “I’m empty and hurting so much.

“The way he did it and not knowing for so long is messing my head up.

“Losing Richard broke my heart. Now losing Colin has ripped my insides out.”

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She posted a message on Facebook which read: “The police have a lot to answer for. I ask myself ‘why?’.

“After losing Richie he was never the same. He was so depressed and wanted to be with him.

“Now he is, I know the two of them will get on fine, but I’m not.

“I’ve only one brother left. I wish I had all three. I want them all back so much.

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“RIP my two beautiful brothers. Look after each other till I’m there. Love you both so much. Sleep tight.”

Lothian and Borders Police have apologised for the distress Colin’s family, including mother Dorothy, 66, and brother James, 41, have had to go through.

A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said: “Inquiries were launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

“However, during this time, next of kin were not informed.

“Officers visited relatives on October 29 to officially notify them of the death and offer a full explanation for the police delay in contacting them. Lothian and Borders Police apologise for any distress caused to the man’s family during this time.”

Samaritans provides confidential emotional support 24/7 to those experiencing despair, distress or suicidal feelings. Call 08457-90 90 90 or visit www.samaritans.org.

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