An inquest has ruled that Barnaby Wills, a 19-year-old Oxford University student, took his own life after being found critically injured on railway tracks near his home in Shepherdswell, Kent. The coroner concluded he died by falling from a bridge, and he was described by family, teachers and university staff as an "exceptional" and popular young man whose death was felt deeply across his communities.

The inquest, held at Oakwood House in Maidstone, heard that Wills had experienced mental health difficulties from the age of 17 but went on to win a place studying philosophy, politics and economics at St Hilda's College, Oxford. His condition worsened after starting university, prompting him to suspend his studies for a year on medical grounds, though he continued seeking help and expressing hope for the future. Concerns were raised for his welfare on the night of 26 April, and he was found seriously injured in the early hours of 27 April despite emergency efforts. He was remembered by his school, hockey club and college for his academic achievement, kindness and warmth towards others.