A coroner was moved to tears as she recorded a verdict of suicide at Aldrin Carlos’ inquest.
Aldrin Lloyd Carlos, aged nineteen, went missing on July 14 last year and was found seventeen days later in the Stave Hill Ecological Park, part of the Russia Dock Woodland in Rotherhithe.
The artist from Canada Water did not have a known history of suffering from mental health problems and no note was found at the scene, Southwark Coroner’s Court heard on Tuesday, February 25.
Police reported no suspicious circumstances or evidence of trauma aside from injuries associated with hanging.
Assistant Coroner Michelle Haste said: “The only conclusion that I believe reflects the evidence is suicide.
“That means it is probable – more likely than not – that the cause of death was a deliberate act by Aldrin to cause his death. I’m satisfied that is the case here.”
Wiping away tears, she added: “It is entirely understandable the family found it too difficult to attend. My sincerest condolences to them. May he find peace.”
His mother Grace, a nurse, last saw her son on the night of Sunday July 14 when she wished him goodnight and went to bed around 10pm.
The following day she realised he had left the house without his phone and wallet and there was no message, taking only his keys.
On Tuesday, July 16, she filed a missing person report with police. His body was found on July 31, by a passer-by.
Ms Haste added: “The family have found it too difficult to provide background information as to Aldrin’s immediate past and were too distressed to write a statement on his death.
“They ask us to review an interview with Southwark News where Ms Carlos paid tribute to her beloved son. A lovely tribute to a loving son.”
Grace, 44, had told the News of her devastation and how grateful she was for the love and support shown from the community after the tragedy. She had moved to the UK from the Philippines to give Aldrin a better life after many years apart.
“To know that my son was a good person, that he touched so many people’s lives, and was so kind, it is the only thing I have that can help me heal,” she had said.
Aldrin, who was studying Fine Art at City and Guilds London Art School in Kennington, lived at home with Grace and was known for his creativity, love of yoga and martial arts, and interest in Buddhism.
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