A “loving” mum killed her disabled son and herself on the anniversary of the death of her husband – just days after being told she had terminal cancer.
Shirley Nunn, 67, was the appointed carer for her 50-year-old son Stephen, who suffered a serious brain injury which changed his life when he was 11. In 2021 she had been told she had terminal lung cancer which spread to her brain, spine and pelvis. Cleveland Police was later called to her home by her sister who had found the bodies of Shirley and Stephen inside.
An investigation was carried out following the deaths which found more could have been done to offer emotional support to Mrs Nunn after her terminal cancer diagnosis. The Domestic Homicide Review (DHR) said it could only be assumed she felt there was no other option or alternative for her son’s ongoing care relating to his Cerebral Palsy and epilepsy, TeesideLive reported.
The review described Mrs Nunn as a “loving and caring” mother, and said they were part of a close-knit and supportive family. She had been diagnosed with stage three cancer in July 2021 and a month later was told it was terminal.
The agencies working with the family said she was more concerned about how her son would cope without her as her health deteriorated. However it was also noted there had been nothing to indicate her intention to take her own life and kill her son.
Mrs Nunn’s husband Paul had died of cancer in October 2019 and his loved ones passed away on the anniversary of his death. Following the tragedy, the DHR was commissioned by the Middlesbrough Community Safety Partnership and carried out by an independent chair.
The report published on Middlesbrough Council’s website which changed their names to “June and John”. It said: “June had cared for and loved her son throughout his life and without question had always prioritised his needs.”
“She was tearful on two occasions reflecting on her deteriorating health conditions. The panel feel that whilst she was in hospital opportunities were missed to consider her psychological and care needs or to share information concerning this with Adult Social Care.” Cleveland Police carried out an investigation and the findings were handed to the Teesside Coroner.
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