Rachel Tunstill, 32, who was serving a life sentence for the killing of her newborn daughter, Mia Kelly, has died in prison. Authorities at HMP Styal in Cheshire confirmed her death, which is now being looked into by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman.
Tunstill’s case had made headlines due to the disturbing nature of the crime and the complicated legal journey that followed.
A Disturbing Crime
Back in 2017, Tunstill, a psychology graduate and assistant manager, gave birth alone in her flat. Moments later, she stabbed her newborn baby multiple times using scissors and placed the body in a bin.
She was initially found guilty of murder. However, her conviction was later reduced to infanticide on appeal after questions were raised about her mental state. Despite this, a retrial led to a fresh murder conviction. The judge called it a cruel and senseless killing of a defenseless child.
Mental Health Played a Central Role
Tunstill’s psychological health became a major focus during the court proceedings. Diagnosed with autism, she reportedly believed she was having a miscarriage, not a full-term delivery. Her defense team argued that her mental condition, along with her confusion about the situation, heavily influenced her actions.
Search History Raised Concerns
Investigators also found unsettling internet searches on Tunstill’s devices. She had looked up details on notorious killers and violent cases involving children, adding a troubling layer to the case.
Calls for Better Mental Health Support
This case has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger mental health support—especially for individuals with autism and those experiencing serious psychological issues. Advocates argue that better access to care could prevent similar tragedies in the future, both in the community and within the criminal justice system.
Unanswered Questions About Her Death
At this time, it’s unclear how Tunstill died. Authorities are reviewing the circumstances to determine if it was natural causes, suicide, or something else. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman is leading the inquiry.
A Broader Issue at Hand
While Rachel Tunstill’s actions were horrific, her story raises deeper questions about how society handles mental health crises. Her case underscores the importance of identifying and supporting vulnerable individuals before tragedy occurs.
As the investigation into her death unfolds, her case continues to spark debate about the justice system’s handling of mental health—and the role society must play in preventing similar cases from happening again.
