Dave Courtney, the former gangster-turned-author, described his struggles with chronic pain and his desire not to “waste having a wicked life” in videos recorded before he took his own life, an inquest has heard.
The 64-year-old, who claimed past associations with notorious 1960s gangsters the Kray twins, was found dead at his Plumstead home on October 22, 2023, with a gunshot wound. His friend, actor Brendan McGirr, discovered his body at his residence on Chestnut Rise, Southwark Coroner’s Court was told.
Inquest Findings
At Thursday’s hearing, Senior Coroner Dr Julian Morris concluded that Courtney died by suicide.
Detective Sergeant James Robinson, who investigated the case, stated there was “no evidence of third-party involvement.”
The court was also shown videos that Courtney recorded in the months before his death. In one clip, he discussed the severe pain caused by his rheumatoid arthritis, revealing how he was struggling to move around his home and car.
“I’m having to hide the fact that I can’t get up and down the stairs and in and out of the car and I’m not enjoying it at the moment,” Courtney said in the video.
He added:
“I don’t want to waste having a wicked life like I’ve had. Absolutely superb.”
Final Message
In a separate 35-second video recorded in the early hours of October 22, just before his death, Courtney apologised to his loved ones, saying:
“There’s people that are going to be upset. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”
The clip has since been shared on his former social media accounts.
A Notorious Life
Courtney was well known for turning his back on crime and becoming a writer, publishing several books about his past. Over the years, he built a public persona that blended his criminal past with entertainment, often appearing in the media and making public appearances.
Help and Support
If you have been affected by the issues in this article, support is available.
Samaritans: Call 116 123
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Visit: samaritans.org
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