Former Gangster Dave Courtney Took Own Life After Battling Chronic Pain, Inquest Reveals
New Details from Tragic Inquest
Dave Courtney, the ex-gangster turned author, opened up about his agonising struggle with chronic pain before his death. The 64-year-old, who once claimed links to the infamous 1960s Kray twins, was found dead from a gunshot wound at his Plumstead home on October 22, 2023. Actor friend Brendan McGirr made the grim discovery at Courtney’s Chestnut Rise address, Southwark Coroner’s Court heard.
Coroner Confirms Suicide
Senior Coroner Dr Julian Morris ruled Courtney’s death a suicide during Thursday’s inquest hearing. Detective Sergeant James Robinson, who led the investigation, confirmed there was no evidence of third-party involvement.
The court saw videos Dave recorded before his death. In one, he grimly described the crippling pain from rheumatoid arthritis, struggling just to move around his home and car.
“I’m having to hide the fact that I can’t get up and down the stairs and in and out of the car and I’m not enjoying it at the moment,” Courtney said. “I don’t want to waste having a wicked life like I’ve had. Absolutely superb.”
Final Apology Before Tragedy
Just hours before he died, Courtney filmed a heartfelt 35-second message apologising to his loved ones. “There’s people that are going to be upset. I didn’t mean to hurt you,” he said. This poignant clip quickly surfaced on his former social media accounts following his death.
A Life of Crime and Reinvention
Once a notorious figure from London’s criminal underworld, Courtney turned his back on crime to become a bestselling author. Known for blending tales of his shady past with media stardom, he chronicled his life in books and public appearances. But pain and suffering haunted him till the end.
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