Heathrow Gatwick Cars

Tuesday 10 January 2012

Body found hanged at Heathrow Airport

An operations manager was found hanged at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 after reportedly fearing that he could be made redundant after 23 years.

The body of Keith Stone, 50, who was managing a cleaning business that was subcontracted by major airlines, was found hanging from a de-icing vehicle in full view of passengers and staff at the UK’s busiest airport terminal.

According to a colleague the father-of-three was believed to have been battling anxiety after hearing that he would have to re-apply for his role with the Aircraft Service International Group (ASIG) following planned cuts.

He took his own life after emailing bosses outlining his disgust at his treatment after 23 years' loyal service.

A colleague told ‘The Sun’: “Keith was told about the threat to his job two weeks before Christmas.

“He wrestled with anxiety throughout the festive season. The prospect of financial woes proved too much.

“He went to work last Wednesday and emailed his bosses exactly what he thought of them. He then went outside and hanged himself.”

A Met Police spokesman said: "We were called at 11.10am on January 4th to reports of a deceased man who was found airside at Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport.

“He was pronounced dead by paramedics at the scene. His death is being treated as non-suspicious and his next-of-kin have been informed.”

“Keith’s commitment, professionalism and good humour will be sorely missed,” said a spokesperson from ASIG.

Mr Stone's funeral will take place in Slough next week.