His father, Simon told the inquest, James had a tendency to become “hyper-fixated” on things and had developed an interest in air pistols and modifying them, including, it is thought – the one involved in his death.
A man, 25, killed himself in front of his dad after struggling to find his first ‘proper job’.
James Keeping suffered increasing mental health difficulties in the months leading up to his death, and had seen a doctor where he admitted he was having suicidal thoughts. But, later sadly died at the family farm in Duns Tew, near Bicester, on February 15.
An inquest at Oxford Coroner’s Court heard James had struggled to find meaningful employment after graduating from university in 2024. In a post on LinkedIn, he sought help finding work and wrote: “I know I don’t have a long CV yet, but I’m willing, motivated, and not afraid to get stuck in. I’ve shown I can adapt and persevere, whether that was working on earthquake relief efforts in Nepal or supporting conservation diving projects in Mexico.”
“Those experiences taught me to stay grounded, stay curious, and never take opportunities for granted. More than anything, I’m looking for a role where I can learn, contribute, and grow. If you’re hiring, or if you’re happy to share any advice with someone just starting out, I’d genuinely appreciate it.”
Shortly before his son’s tragic death, James’ father, Simon, who previously ran jet wash firm, Karcher for 20 years, also appealed for help on LinkedIn. He said: “It’s tough for young people to get that first ‘proper job’. Call it nepotism, but I would love to give my son James that break. If you wouldn’t mind sharing with your networks I know he and I would really appreciate it.”
The inquest heard James was born in Austin, Texas, but had been adopted by Mr Keeping and his wife Christine, 63, at an early age. He achieved A-levels in politics, economics and drama. He later graduated from Newcastle University with a degree in marketing and management in 2024.
His dad said James had a tendency to become “hyper-fixated” on things and had developed an interest in air pistols and modifying them, including, it is thought – the one involved in his death. Simon told the court his son had previously been a member of a shooting club where he held a shotgun licence. However, after being diagnosed with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as experiencing anxiety, he gave up the licence.
On the day before his death, Valentine’s Day, James spent the day with his girlfriend, Lesha Jennings, who had known him for five years. The pair went out together before returning to the family home, where they stayed up talking into the early hours.
Lesha said: “We got back to his and we stayed up talking about how he was feeling until about 4am.”
The following day, James continued drinking before he and his dad took Lesha back to her home. Still upset on their return, he became argumentative and bemoaned being unemployed.
His girlfriend, Lesha Jennings, told the inquest in a statement: “It was clear his mental health was spiralling. He said life was s***. He said how hard it was.”
Toxicology reports showed he had 234mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood at the time of his death, nearly three times the drink-drive limit. Coroner Nicholas Graham said he could not record a verdict of suicide, but could also not record one of accidental death. Instead, he delivered a narrative verdict.
He said: “There is insufficient evidence to conclude that he intended to take his own life.”
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