Dog groomer to Coronation Street stars killed himself after tidal wave of abuse from online trolls, inquest

An inquest heard that dog groomer and animal sanctuary founder Bailey Lister died by suicide after months of online criticism and harassment affected his mental health. The coroner concluded that he took his own life, noting that financial problems and online abuse contributed to his distress.

Lister, 22, founded Hugo’s Small Animal Sanctuary near Blackpool aged 18, but financial difficulties led to his eviction from the site and a surge of online abuse. He attempted suicide five times in 12 weeks, and police were investigating the messages when he died on 6 May. The coroner said his condition had improved with professional support, and he had been looking forward to work caring for animals.