The Grisly Discovery: A Life Shattered by Abuse
The tragic and heart-wrenching story of Kiena Dawes unfolded on July 22, 2022, when police officer Stephanie Sawyer discovered the 23-year-old mother covered in blood in her home in Fleetwood, Lancashire. This shocking scene came just days after Kiena had called 999, reporting a domestic dispute with her partner, Ryan Wellings. She described feeling threatened and in danger, setting the stage for a series of events that would lead to her untimely and tragic death.
Ryan Wellings Denies Allegations: A Fight for Control
Ryan Wellings, 30, of Bispham, Lancashire, stood before Preston Crown Court, denying charges of murder, assault, and controlling, coercive behavior. Their relationship, which began in January 2020, was marked by intense, rapid developments. Within days of meeting Kiena, Wellings tattooed her name and face on his body and proposed marriage just three months later. However, what seemed like a whirlwind romance soon spiraled into an abusive and toxic relationship, where Kiena’s safety and well-being were in constant jeopardy.
The Final Moments: A Call for Help
PC Stephanie Sawyer described the harrowing scene she encountered upon arriving at Kiena’s home. “There was blood on the floor in the shared hall. She was covered in blood, on her hands, all over. And she was upset and crying,” Sawyer explained. Kiena had a severe head injury, and there was a broken towel rail in the bathroom, suggesting the violence she had endured.
According to police reports, Wellings had accused Kiena of being a “schizophrenic oddity” and violently shoved her into a radiator, which broke off the wall. He also allegedly slammed a door into her head, knocking her unconscious. Wellings claims he was attacked by Kiena and acted in self-defense, but the evidence presented by the prosecution painted a different picture.
The Evidence: A Heartbreaking Goodbye
In the days leading up to her death, Kiena’s distress was evident. She had confided in a counselor about the abuse she suffered at the hands of Wellings. Her statements revealed a pattern of emotional and physical abuse, where she was living in constant fear. Kiena had been diagnosed with depression and was struggling to cope with the violent relationship. Despite the ongoing abuse, she chose not to press charges, perhaps out of fear or a sense of hopelessness.
A chilling note was found, written by Kiena herself, stating: “I was killed. Ryan Wellings killed me. He destroyed all of the strength I had left.” The note also expressed her deep sorrow over leaving her young daughter behind, apologizing for not being able to protect her from the man who had caused so much harm.
The Abusive Relationship: A Quick Descent into Chaos
The court heard that Kiena and Wellings’ relationship had progressed rapidly, with Wellings becoming possessive and controlling. Within a week of meeting, he had her name and face tattooed on his body. His rapid and intense actions mirrored the escalating nature of the abuse that would soon follow. This whirlwind romance quickly turned toxic, with Wellings’ abusive behavior suffocating Kiena’s sense of self-worth and safety.
The Aftermath: A Call for Justice
Kiena’s death was not just the end of her life but also a poignant reminder of the pervasive issue of domestic violence. Her tragic story calls attention to the urgency of addressing abusive relationships and providing support to victims before it’s too late.
Kiena’s final words in her note, “Please don’t let bullies live freely,” serve as a call to action, urging society to recognize the signs of abuse and intervene before more lives are lost. Her story has sparked discussions about the need for faster police response and greater resources for victims of domestic violence.
Resources for Domestic Violence Victims
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse or violence, there are resources available for help. In the United States, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) offers confidential assistance, including safety planning and referrals to local services. Many communities also have shelters, legal aid, and counseling services specifically designed to support victims of domestic violence.
Remember, help is available, and no one should face abuse alone.