A number of people “were spoken to” after a 20-year-old student took his own life when he became the target of cyberbullying at a Norfolk university, police have confirmed. 

It comes following an inquest into the death of Michael Tarrier, who was found in his shared student house in Oak Street, Norwich, in the early hours of January 29, 2022. 

The court heard how Mr Tarrier, a second-year student at Norwich University of the Arts, had been subjected to cycberbullying during his time there. 

Mr Tarrier had struggled with his mental health after fellow undergraduates at the university compiled a PowerPoint presentation in which they mocked aspects of his behaviour and personality. 

Following that, Mr Tarrier, who was autistic, sought support for his poor mental health and for self harming. 

Eastern Daily Press: Michael Tarrier

A spokesperson for Norfolk Constabulary said: “A number of people were spoken to by police in relation to the death. No arrests or charges of any kind were made.” 

Cyberbullying as a crime is classed as harassment or malicious communications. 

Speaking after the inquest, Mr Tarrier’s mother, Claire Russell, said: “Police [investigated] malicious communications and public order offences but without prosecuting as it would have then opened a full investigation into why Michael died and would be hard to prove the connection.” 

The university’s internal inquiry into his death found "a number of cyberbullying issues" on the games art and design course. It went as far as to question if there had been "a culture of cyberbullying” at the time. 

The inquest, which took place at Norfolk Coroner’s Court in Norwich earlier this month, heard that Mr Tarrier died during the early hours of the morning of January 29, 2022. 

Samantha Gower, assistant coroner for Norfolk who led the proceedings, confirmed that Mr Tarrier had been “the subject of online bullying” and recorded a short narrative conclusion of: “Michael died as a result of a deliberate act of hanging however it is not known if this was a deliberate attempt to end his life as his state of mind at the time was unknown.” 

Eastern Daily Press: Michael Tarrier with his mum and sister

Since Mr Tarrier's death, the university has developed a new Report and Support process to assist students and staff to raise awareness of the issue and the impact of cyberbullying.  

The aim is to make it easier for students to report such incidents. 

A spokesperson from Norwich University of the Arts said: “Michael was a valued member of our community. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies go out to Michael's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. 

“At Norwich, we endeavour to provide a safe and supportive environment for everyone.  

“Following Michael’s passing we undertook our own investigation and supported the police investigation into the circumstances surrounding Michael’s death.  

“While the police evidence submitted to the coroner did not find a direct link between bullying and Michael’s death, we recognise the importance of greater awareness and understanding. 

“We have acted on the recommendations of our own investigation including a new Report and Support process, which enables students, staff, and visitors to securely report incidents of bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and discrimination, and provides access to confidential support.” 

Chris Green, a former senior lecture at NUA, taught Mr Tarrier in his second year and said he was a “top five” student in his class.  

  • If you need help and support, call NHS 111 and select option 2 or the Samaritans on 116 123. Both services are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can also download the Stay Alive app on Apple & Android.