Kiena Dawes, a 23-year-old mother from Fleetwood, Lancashire, tragically ended her life on July 22, 2022. Before her passing, she entrusted her 9-month-old daughter to a friend and then went to a nearby railway track where she took her own life.
A Farewell Letter on Her Phone
Kiena’s body was discovered by British Transport Police, and a heartbreaking farewell letter was later found on her phone. In the letter, Kiena detailed the immense pain she had endured, placing blame on her ex-partner for what she described as emotional and psychological abuse that led to her tragic decision.
She accused her ex of “slowly murdering” her through his abusive behavior.
“I fought hard, I fought long. I went through pain no one can imagine. I was murdered. [My ex] killed me. He destroyed all the strength I had left. I didn’t deserve this,” Kiena wrote. She also urged action against abusive behavior, adding, “I hope my life saves another by the police acting faster. Don’t let bullies live freely.”
A Heartbreaking Message to Her Daughter
Kiena also left a poignant message for her young daughter, expressing sorrow for leaving her behind.
“I’m sorry I let you go… I’m so sorry I had to leave. The world turned its back on me. I was strong. I had dreams. I once had a future. It was taken from me,” she wrote.
Her ex-partner now faces allegations of controlling and abusive behavior, with prosecutors arguing that his actions significantly contributed to Kiena’s tragic death.
Kiena’s ex-partner was subject to a restraining order after being accused of physically abusing her during the summer of 2022. However, prosecutors allege that he violated the order by contacting her and issuing threats.
A Facebook Post to Raise Awareness
In response to his threats, Kiena reportedly contacted the police, but her brother, Kynan, claims her concerns were not taken seriously. The next day, Kiena posted on Facebook, sharing images of her injuries, including a bandaged head, visible bruises, and other signs of abuse.
From the witness stand, Kynan recounted, “She was told by the police to take it down. She was trying to raise awareness about a woman being abused. She wanted to share her story with the world, but the very people tasked with protecting women—those who should be their last line of defense—told her to remove it.”
Tragically, just two weeks later, Kiena was found dead.
The Charges
Kiena had been diagnosed with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), also known as Borderline Personality Disorder, a condition characterized by intense emotional swings and challenges in managing emotions.
Prosecutors argue that her ex-partner exploited her vulnerabilities, contributing to her mental and emotional decline. He now faces charges of ABH (Actual Bodily Harm), coercive control, and manslaughter. The accused denies all charges, and the trial remains ongoing.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential emotional support, available 24/7.