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Inquest Hears Bombardier Feared Promotion Loss Before Death at Larkhill

Witnesses described Nadine Askew’s panic after a barracks fight she believed would jeopardize a planned promotion.

Overview

  • Royal Artillery Bombardier Nadine Askew, 31, was found dead in her room at Larkhill Garrison on July 22, 2021, with the cause of death recorded as hanging.
  • Lance Bombardier Lucy Clark told Wiltshire and Swindon Coroner’s Court that Askew knew the fight with a junior gunner could derail her career prospects, including a planned step up to sergeant.
  • Clark testified that Askew had a panic attack after the altercation and that, despite concern about career repercussions, she had no immediate fear Askew would self-harm that night.
  • The court heard Askew had previous self-harm incidents, was placed on the military vulnerability risk management register, and received mental health support, which her parents said they had not known about.
  • Askew served in Iraq and Afghanistan and had earlier lost rank after a separate fight in Germany, and the inquest before Area Coroner Ian Singleton continues.