Man broadcasts suicide live in internet chatroom

A FATHER-OF-TWO who apparently broadcast his own suicide live on the internet died from hanging, police confirmed last night.

The body of Kevin Whitrick was found on Wednesday night after a chatroom user contacted police to report that the man had “self-harmed” while online via a webcam.

The 42-year-old, from Telford in Shropshire, was found hanged late on Wednesday.

Mr Whitrick’s ex-wife, who does not wish to be named, said: “Kevin was a loving father and family man.

“He was always the life and soul of the party, an extremely considerate and kind person and loved by many.

“He will be so sadly missed by us all.”

Mr Whitrick, who had 12-year-old twins, had a very serious car accident in July 2006 and had never returned to full health, his wife added.

West Mercia Constabulary said attempts were made to resuscitate Mr Whitrick, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

An investigation into all the circumstances surrounding the death is continuing, but no-one else is being sought by police.

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Groves said: “Our enquiries to date have revealed that Mr Whitrick was using an internet chatroom with a number of other people at the time of his death.

“Police have managed to secure some of the necessary internet files and these will form part of our investigation.

“We are working to ensure that witness support facilities are available to those who may have been affected by what they saw.” a spokesman said.

Police said the body had been found after another internet user dialled 999.

Police said the man was found dead in shortly after 11.15pm on Wednesday.

“Police were alerted after the man, who had been conversing with other parties on an internet messaging service, appeared to self-harm,” the spokesman said.