Kiena Dawes, a 23-year-old mother, tragically took her own life after enduring a sustained period of alleged abuse at the hands of her fiancé, Ryan Wellings. Wellings is currently on trial at Preston Crown Court, facing charges of manslaughter, assault, and controlling and coercive behavior. The court heard harrowing details of the abuse Kiena suffered, including threats of acid attacks and dental mutilation, alongside physical violence. Just days before her death, Kiena made a desperate 999 call following a car accident, expressing her fear of dying and her struggles with her mental health. This call underscores the profound emotional distress she was experiencing. Kiena’s death has left behind a nine-month-old daughter, further highlighting the tragic consequences of domestic abuse.
Kiena’s vulnerability was exacerbated by her Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder, a condition that made her more susceptible to suicidal ideation and more likely to struggle with leaving abusive relationships. The prosecution argues that Wellings exploited this vulnerability, contributing to her decision to end her life. Evidence presented to the court painted a picture of systematic abuse, with Kiena’s mother testifying about instances of violence, including being thrown over a glass table. Despite her mother’s pleas to leave the relationship, Kiena remained with Wellings, trapped in a cycle of abuse and fear.
The events leading to Kiena’s death began with a 999 call she made on July 11, 2022, reporting an assault by Wellings. Police found Kiena with a head injury and damage to the bathroom towel rail, but Wellings denied the assault, claiming he had restrained her in self-defense. Eleven days later, Kiena left her baby daughter at a friend’s house with a note detailing the abuse she had suffered and directly blaming Wellings for her death. She then took her own life on train tracks in Lancashire. The note serves as a chilling testament to the devastating impact of Wellings’ alleged abuse and Kiena’s desperate plea for justice.
The note left by Kiena accused Wellings of “murdering” her and “ruining every bit of strength” she had left. She expressed her hope that her death would prompt faster action from police services in cases of domestic abuse, urging them not to “let bullies live free.” She also apologized to her daughter for leaving her and expressed her wish that the child be kept away from Wellings. This note, along with testimony from Kiena’s mother and the 999 calls, forms a compelling narrative of escalating abuse and despair.
Kiena’s mother, Angela Dawes, testified about her daughter’s initial infatuation with Wellings, describing how Kiena was “swept off her feet” by his romantic gestures. However, this initial charm soon gave way to a pattern of abuse. Angela recalled witnessing the aftermath of violent incidents and urging her daughter to leave the relationship. Despite these pleas, Kiena remained trapped, highlighting the complex dynamics of abusive relationships and the difficulties victims face in escaping them.
While Wellings admits to some altercations with Kiena, he denies the extent of the abuse alleged by the prosecution. He claims that any injuries Kiena sustained were either accidental or the result of him restraining her during her alleged attacks on him. The trial continues, with the jury left to determine the veracity of the accusations against Wellings and the extent of his responsibility for Kiena’s tragic death. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic abuse and the urgent need for greater awareness and support for victims.
