Tragedy as mum, 44, died in ‘impulsive act’ after argument
Michelle Perry, 44, is described by her family as someone who would “move heaven and earth” for those close to her
‘Loving mum and nana’ Michelle Perry, from Ashton-under-Lyne, who died aged 44
A ‘loving mum and nana’ tragically died in an “impulsive act” following an argument, an inquest has found.
Michelle Perry, 44, from Ashton-under-Lyne, was found dead in an alleyway in Honeywell Lane in Oldham, in the early hours of November 16.
Rochdale Coroner’s Court heard on Tuesday (September 23) that Michelle, who had previously lived in a women’s refuge, had struggled with her mental health and alcohol use but was working on “getting her life together” in the months before her death.
The court heard that Michelle and her partner had argued on the night she died. Detective Superintendent Dean from Greater Manchester Police said CCTV footage from a nearby property confirmed the pair had fought and captured Michelle leaving her tent – in which she had been living – shortly after.
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Detectives also ruled out third-party involvement after reviewing the evidence.
Her daughter, Courtney Nicholson, told the court she had seen her mother the day before her death, where she described Michelle as acting “normal”.
Michelle Perry (right)(Image: Supplied)
Dr Hunjan, Michelle’s GP, told the court that she had long struggled with anxiety, depression and alcohol use. She had been prescribed medication in the months before her death and she had missed two appointments with mental health services.
Courtney told the inquest that her mum had been “very open” with her family about her mental health problems.
Forensic pathologist Dr Charles Wilson said Michelle ruled the medical cause of death as hanging. He said she had injuries consistent with someone with “substance abuse problems or living rough”.
Coroner Catherine McKenna recorded a conclusion of misadventure, finding that there was no evidence to suggest she intended to end her life.
Summing up, Ms McKenna said Michelle’s death was “an impulsive act in the aftermath of an argument.”
“The evidence does not show intention,” she added.
Michelle’s daughter Courtney told the Manchester Evening News: “She was a loving mum and nana who adored her children especially her grandchildren. Life has been hard without Michelle around she always brightened up your day.
“The grandchildren have definitely noticed crazy nana isn’t around anymore! But she left an imprint on everybody she met whether it was good or bad you will always remember Michelle Perry!
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“We miss her dearly and would love for things to be different but she’s at peace and we love that she isn’t suffering anymore, she has struggled for so long with mental health. It’s sad but we still love her as if she was still here and she’s always talked about, so she will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts.”
In a fundraiser set up shortly after her death, Michelle’s daughters wrote: “Michelle was such a loving and caring person and if she loved you, she loved you to the fullest. She would move heaven and earth for anyone that needed her!”
“She wasn’t perfect but no one is! Every person she met she would treat like family.
“She was so so proud of her kids and grandkids, we were the only ones that mattered to her.”