An inquest has heard that a female soldier, Gunner Jaysley Beck, who tragically died in her barracks at Larkhill Camp, was manipulated by a senior colleague who threatened suicide and engaged in harassment. Bombardier Ryan Mason, who was experiencing mental health issues, subjected Gunner Beck to an intense period of unwelcome behavior, leading to her feeling responsible for his well-being. Gunner Beck did not report the harassment due to manipulation tactics employed by Mr. Mason.
During the nine-day hearing at Salisbury Coroner’s Court, messages between Gunner Beck and Mr. Mason were shared, revealing over 4,600 messages sent by him confessing his feelings for her. These messages created a stressful and uncomfortable environment for Gunner Beck, causing her to dread going to work due to Mr. Mason’s manipulation tactics and threats to harm himself to gain her attention.
Colleagues described Gunner Beck as outgoing, lively, confident, and inspiring, highlighting her dedication to caring for others. Despite the urging of Bombardier Young for Gunner Beck to report the behavior, she hesitated out of concern for Mr. Mason’s well-being and feared the repercussions reporting him might have on her position within the team. Gunner Beck’s commitment to her job and her reluctance to cause drama by making complaints further complicated her situation.
The court heard how Mr. Mason’s behavior escalated in the final weeks of Gunner Beck’s life, culminating in a training exercise in Newbury where she reached a breaking point. Despite Mr. Mason eventually removing himself from his post in response to Gunner Beck’s distress, she was found dead in her room a few days later. An Army service inquiry report published in October 2023 highlighted multiple contributing factors to Gunner Beck’s death, including strains from a sexual relationship, allegations of unfaithfulness, and unhealthy drinking habits
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