SEO HEADLINE: Southampton Woman Dies After Rape Trauma by Jail Predator TWO WORD TEASE: Rape Tragedy Levi Davies, 19, died after struggling with the trauma of a brutal rape in Southampton’s Palmerston Park in February 2023. Police arrested 28-year-old Rosario Dos Reis hours later and he was handed an eight-year jail sentence for the attack that left Levi unable to recover.
Devastating Aftermath
Levi’s family described the rape as a “life sentence” that destroyed her spirit. Despite trying to rebuild her life, Levi was haunted by nightmares and panic attacks. Her mother, Michelle Davies, said, “The rape killed her the day of the attack; it just took a year for it to happen.”
Last Moments
On 20 February 2024, a year and a day after the attack, Levi was found dead at her home from a lethal ketamine overdose. The inquest returned an open conclusion, unable to determine if the overdose was accidental or intentional.
Justice Served
Dos Reis admitted the rape and was sentenced to eight years and four months in prison with an extended six-year licence. However, Levi’s family say the true sentence was the lifelong torment their daughter endured.
Family Grief
Levi’s twin brother, River said losing her was like losing “another part of my soul.” Her siblings remember her as the protective sister who stood up for others, but could not escape the trauma she was forced to live with. The family hopes Levi’s story shines a light on the enduring impact that sexual violence survivors face.