Tragic Note Left by BGT Star Found Dead with Favourite Song Playing
A heartbreaking note left by a dancer who appeared on Britain's Got Talent has been revealed following her tragic death. Kerri-Anne Donaldson took her own life after she was arrested on suspicion of a sexual offence, as detailed in a recent inquest hearing.
Career and Arrest Details
Donaldson, who reached the semi-finals of the hit ITV show Britain's Got Talent in 2014 as part of the dance group Kings and Queens, performed alongside notable dancers like Neil and Katya Jones and Kai Widdrington, all later professionals on Strictly Come Dancing. Sadly, on June 7, 2023, she was found dead at her home in Farnborough, Hampshire. The inquest at Winchester Coroner's Court heard that the 38-year-old was arrested on June 4 and questioned at a police station about a sexual offence, which she denied.
Events Leading to Her Death
After her release, Donaldson failed to return home, prompting her family to report her as a missing person. She was subsequently found at a Travelodge hotel in Woking, Surrey, where her sister, Cara Donaldson, explained that Kerri-Anne was taken to hospital in an ambulance after an overdose. The following day, when Cara could not reach her sister by phone, she went to Kerri-Anne's home and discovered a tragic note placed at the top of the stairs. The note read: "Call 999, do not come in. I am sorry."
Heartbreaking Discoveries at the Scene
When Ms Donaldson was found, the tune You Are So Beautiful was playing on repeat. Additionally, a photograph of her dog was found folded up with a sad note that said: "If only you knew how many times you had saved me." Several photo books and canvases of family members were also present, including a photo with her sister Cara bearing the words, "I am so sorry," and another of their parents with the message: "I am so sorry, I made the mistake of trust, I wish I could start again."
Inquest Findings and Family Tributes
A post-mortem examination confirmed the cause of death as hanging, with non-fatal levels of medication in her blood consistent with an overdose. At the inquest, Cara Donaldson paid tribute to her sister, describing her as having a "heart of gold" and being "full of fun, brought happiness to life, especially mine, career-driven, adored her family, adored her friends, fantastic dance teacher, everyone loved her." The inquest has been adjourned until Tuesday for further proceedings.
If you are struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.
