Talented Sheffield teenager, 16, was ‘trying to express distress’ when he took his life

Louis Milo Sleney, aged 16, died in the bedroom of his home in Oldfield Road, Stannington, on Thursday, February 13, 2020.

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Paramedics and police officers were deployed to the family home but Louis could not be saved.

Recording a verdict of misadventure after an inquest into the death held yesterday, Assistant Coroner Tanyka Rawden said: “Louis Milo Sleney did not intend to take his own life, it is likely he reacted impulsively to emotional distress and was trying to express that distress.”

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Louis was a pupil at Notre Dame High School, Ranmoor, where a glowing tribute was paid after his death.

The teenager was described as a ‘much loved’ member of the school.

In a statement, headteacher Steve Davies said: “All of the Notre Dame High School community would like to express our sincere condolences to Louis’ family for the devastating loss of their wonderful son.

“Louis’ loss is all the more tragic because he was a young man full of potential and promise who has left us with great memories of a talented, intelligent, charismatic and popular student.

“We will remember his great sense of humour, and the significant contribution he made to Notre Dame High School.

“Louis showed great academic promise, was a very talented American football player, and also a great lover of music.

“He was a much loved member of our school family and in particular the Year 11 Class of 2020, who will remember him always.

“Above all Louis was a very caring person who always brought a lot of happiness to all members of the school community. He will be deeply mourned and missed, not least by his family and friends who are in our thoughts and prayers.”

Louis played British American football for the club Sheffield Giants, which also paid tribute to him after his tragic death.

The club said he was ‘well liked by all who knew him and had a bright future ahead’.

American football clubs across the country sent condolences messages after his death.

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