A coroner has determined that delays in a 12-year-old boy's autism diagnosis did not contribute to his tragic death. Riley Townsend, from Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, died on September 1, 2024, just days before he was set to start a new term at Ashfield School.

Riley had been experiencing difficulties at his previous school, Quarrydale Academy, where he was described as "unsettled" and faced multiple exclusions due to behavioural issues. His family had been seeking an autism diagnosis for three years prior to his death. Although he was diagnosed with ADHD in November 2021, an assessment for autism spectrum disorder returned inconclusive results.

During an inquest at Nottingham Coroner's Court, it was revealed that Riley was scheduled to receive an autism diagnosis in October 2024, a month after his death. Coroner Amanda Bewley stated that while there were significant delays in the assessment process, these did not play a substantial role in his death.

"Although there was a delay in Riley having an assessment for ASD, I've not made a finding that this has more than minimally contributed to his death," Ms Bewley said. She noted that Riley appeared calm shortly before his death, having asked his mother for dinner just 20 minutes prior.

The court also examined distressing videos found on Riley's phone and concerning drawings in his notebook. However, the coroner concluded that these were indicative of his emotional struggles rather than a clear intention to end his life.

"I have not identified any missed opportunities to intervene or identify risk. Family and all the agencies involved were responding promptly and appropriately to Riley's increasing levels of dysregulated behaviour," Ms Bewley stated.

She further explained that Riley had not expressed any intention to take his own life and that the circumstances surrounding his death were not foreseeable.

In a poignant tribute, Riley's mother, Abi Louise Hill, remembered him as a boy with a wonderful sense of humour who brought joy to those around him. "Riley was a very popular boy and had so many friends. He was such a devoted big brother," she said.

The inquest highlighted the complexities of Riley's emotional state, noting that he struggled with impulsivity and aggression, which affected his ability to manage his emotions. The coroner emphasised that Riley's death was not a result of suicide, but rather a tragic outcome of his challenges with self-regulation and emotional distress.