The heartbreaking mystery surrounding the death of Jack Ayres, a 22-year-old boxer from Somerset, has been clarified following an inquest. Jack’s body was discovered in a water-filled ditch, known locally as a rhyne, only 200 metres from his home in Sharpham, Street, on March 3, 2025.
Shortly after this devastating discovery, Jack’s family appealed for information to understand the circumstances that led to his death. The inquest, held at the Old Municipal Buildings and overseen by Coroner Ms Vanessa McKinlay, revealed crucial details: Jack, who was a delivery driver, had consumed ketamine before falling into the rural, unlit ditch. The soft peat bottom and the effects of the drug impaired his ability to rescue himself, resulting in drowning.
The coroner concluded that Jack’s death was accidental, caused by misadventure and contributed to by illicit drug use. Police confirmed there were no signs of physical injury on Jack’s body.
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Police were alerted to the discovery around 1:45 pm on March 3, shortly after Jack was last seen walking along Sharpham Drove at approximately 2:30 am. Detective Chief Inspector Clement Goodwin emphasized the ongoing investigation’s priority of providing clarity to Jack’s family. Officers sought CCTV footage from nearby residences and requested motorists who were in the area during the early morning hours to check dashcam recordings to assist with enquiries.
In a statement, Jack’s family expressed their grief: “Nothing can put into words how we are all feeling right now. Jack was a much-loved son, grandson, brother, cousin, nephew and boyfriend. We know that nothing will bring Jack back, but we just want to try and understand the lead-up to his passing.”
Pyramid Boxing Club, where Jack trained, paid tribute: “It is with great sadness that Pyramid Boxing Club has lost one of our young talented boxers. Jack was a friend, a family man and a true warrior. We will miss him deeply. Our thoughts are with all of Jack’s family and friends at this sad time.”
Social media posts reflected the community’s sorrow. Comments included heartfelt tributes such as “My beautiful boy, the heartbreak, we miss you so so much,” “RIP Jack,” and “Rest in peace, such sad news.” Fellow boxers remembered Jack as a respected competitor and friend, with one saying, “It was an honour to share the ring with Jack twice, rest easy champ.”
The combined support from family, friends, and community highlights the profound loss felt by all who knew Jack Ayres.