Tragic Death of 26-Year-Old Woman After Heartbreaking Messages
Charlotte Redsell, a 26-year-old woman from Strood, Kent, was found dead at her flat after sending a series of heartbreaking messages to family and friends. An inquest in Maidstone last week confirmed she took her own life, with the coroner citing messages on her phone as evidence of her intent.
A Life Cut Short
Charlotte was discovered by her sister Chantelle, 24, on October 8 last year. Chantelle had grown concerned after receiving a troubling message from Charlotte hours earlier and went to check on her. A toxicology report revealed Charlotte had alcohol and painkillers in her system, but there were no signs of third-party involvement.
Among her final words to those close to her were: “Some people don't belong in this world - and that’s me.” Ian Potter, area coroner for Mid-Kent and Medway, expressed his condolences to the family, stating Charlotte was “far too young” at 26.
Childhood Trauma and Silent Suffering
Charlotte's brother Stephen, 33, shared that they endured a traumatic childhood, losing their mother when Charlotte was just 10 and their father during the Covid pandemic. These experiences left deep scars, with both siblings struggling with anxiety and health issues.
Stephen noted that Charlotte “suffered in silence,” often protecting her emotions. He described her as thoughtful and generous, saying she would give her last few pounds to someone in need rather than see them go without.
A Promising Career and Unfulfilled Dreams
Charlotte was a much-loved and highly-respected restaurant manager. After leaving school, Stephen helped her secure jobs in the hospitality industry, where she proved to be a natural. She rose through the ranks from floor supervisor and kitchen staff to front-of-house manager, eventually working at Fish at 55, a seafood restaurant in Rochester.
She had ambitious plans, including opening her own coffee shop, preparing to take her driving test, and was looking forward to a Reiki class the day after she died. Stephen said, “I'm so proud of her. She loved her job, and it kept her busy. She was chasing her dreams.”
Community Shock and Tributes
Charlotte's death sent shockwaves through her community. Colleagues and customers were devastated, with an impromptu floral shrine appearing outside the restaurant where she worked. Messages described her as a “beautiful young lady” who brought joy to many and would be deeply missed.
Family's Efforts to Raise Awareness
The family is now coping with their loss and plans to raise awareness about mental health issues. Like Charlotte, Stephen has battled alcohol problems and is proud to be two years sober. Both sought support from the mental health charity Mind.
In September, Stephen, along with Charlotte's brother Peter and friend Rachael, will undertake a Three Peaks challenge to raise funds for Mind, honouring Charlotte's memory and promoting mental health support.
