Family devastated after tragic death of Devon boxer

A body found at a bus stop in Devon has been identified as a much-loved and popular 27-year-old local man. Emergency services were called to the stop opposite Greenhill Residential Home in Priscott Way, Kingsteignton, last Sunday September 22.

Ryan Gooding, of Newton Abbot, was discovered by a motorist who had been driving past and stopped after initially thinking someone had fallen over. However, he was instead found to be suspended and unresponsive.

An inquest into his death recently opened at Exeter Coroner's Court. During the short hearing, it was confirmed Mr Gooding was born in Torquay.

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Alison Longhorn, area coroner for Devon, said: "The circumstances are that on September 22, a member of the public was driving past the bus stop on the A383 in Kingsteignton when she saw a person in the bus stop who she thought might have fallen over. She stopped and discovered an unresponsive male.

"Emergency services were called and the male was identified as Ryan. Sadly he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

"There are no suspicious circumstances. The medical cause of death is suspension by ligature."

The inquest was adjourned for a full hearing to be held on a yet to be confirmed date. Tributes have been paid by his family who have described Ryan as having been a 'kind, loving and compassionate' person who touched the lives of so many people.

He was a keen boxer and boxed for Andy’s Man Club and Pegasus Boxing. An online fundraiser has been launched by Ryan's brother Daniel to raise money towards the costs of his funeral. It has so far raised more than £3,500.

The GoFundMe page states: "It’s with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of Ryan’s passing. Words can’t express the depth of this loss, and our hearts are shattered.

"He brought so much love, laughter, and fun into our lives, and it’s hard to imagine life without him. We know Ryan was so well known, fiercely loyal to a fault and had many friends.

"He was a kind, loving and compassionate person who touched the lives of so many around him. His passing has left so many people absolutely devastated, and I know many are struggling to cope with his loss.

"As we come to terms with this unimaginable grief, we are now faced with the challenge of covering the unexpected costs of his funeral and memorial service. We want to give Ryan the farewell he deserves, one that reflects the love and joy he brought to our lives and those who knew him."

Tributes have also poured in from some of Ryan's family and friends on Facebook.

Elouise Rumble posted: "I haven't got the words to describe how much we will all miss you. I wish you would have text or turned up at our door. It would have always been open for you no matter how much has happened. You have left me with the impossible.

"How do I tell my child his best friend and idol, his uncle Ryan, is no longer with us? He is going to miss you so much. Rest in peace bro, fly high."

Jez Palmer said: I’m absolutely broken. To know so much about you and how much you’ve been through! And fighting through some of that s*** with you! It’s blown me away you're gone.

"We’ve had so many laughs so many messy ones and generally made some wicked memories. To know that we won’t make anymore eats me inside but you will forever live in our hearts and forever in our minds! We will love you forever brother

"Love you Ryan Gooding up there reunited with Char and Shannon looking down at us laughing you a*******. You’ll forever be missed my brother."

Michael Williams said: "Words can't describe how devastated my heart hurts in this moment. A friend, a brother I will always hold a place in my heart.

"I'll be there with you to lay you to rest. If I had to walk I promise you ry. Love you man."

Ryan's brother Daniel wrote on his Facebook page: "It’s with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of Ryann Gooding’s passing. Words can’t express the depth of this loss, and our hearts are shattered. He brought so much love, laughter, and fun into our lives, and it’s hard to imagine life without him. We know Ryan was so well known, loyal to a fault and had many friends. Ryan was a keen boxer and advocate for men’s mental health. His bell may have rung, but his legacy continues.

To donate to the fundraiser, please click here.