Inquest into the Death of Delamina Tracey Graham

25y · Female·Ligature Compression of the Neck (Hanging)

Delamina Tracey Graham, a 25-year-old Aboriginal woman, was found dead on 23 May 2001 in bushland near her residence at a block campsite near Boulder, Western Australia. Death was caused by ligature compression of the neck (hanging). The deceased had been in a turbulent relationship characterised by domestic violence and had previously expressed suicidal ideation and self-harm behaviours. She was significantly intoxicated at the time of death (blood alcohol 0.241%). The evidence indicates she died between 21-22 May 2001. A post-mortem examination revealed no evidence of foul play. The coroner made an open finding as to how the death arose, unable to determine whether the deceased intended to take her own life or died accidentally while making a cry for help. Key clinical context includes prior presentations to health services for domestic violence injuries and suicidal intent.