Parkland Suicides: "The Drugs Have Taken Control and Would Not Let Me Go"
The Broward County Medical Examiner's Office has officially ruled the death of 22-year-old Joseph Brown -- who was discovered hanging from a pavilion in a north Broward County park with 24-year-old Nikayla Baldomero -- a suicide, according to official records.
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| Baldomero |
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| Brown |
The case has received much publicity due to the public nature of the apparent suicides. Brown and Baldomero were found hanging from a picnic pavilion at Terramar Park in Parkland by a jogger on the morning of July 20.
In the coroner's file was a suicide note Brown penned to his mother in which he professed his love for her, mentioned what sources say was heavy drug use, lamented the fact that his father was not there to raise him, and voiced fears about his future.
"I'm sorry it had to be like this but I feel it was the only way," Brown wrote. "My life is damaged beyond repair... I feel I am at a better place and have made my peace with god. Don't ever think this is your fault. But the drugs have taken control and would not let me go. There is nothing that could have saved me."
While Brown mentions several friends in the handwritten note, there is no mention of Baldomero, who also reportedly was struggling with drug abuse. Sources have said both were using "Roxies," or Roxicodone, an addictive narcotic pain killer containing oxycodone hydrochloride.
Inside, read the text of the note, which is included to help understand this public tragedy.
Brown's note, addressed to his mother, slightly truncated:
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At this point, Brown mentions his best friend and lists names and numbers of friends he wants notified before it comes out on the news. He concludes: "I am just so alone and so scared and will not be one of those guys on the corner holding a sign. I am just so tired and there is nothing that could have saved me. Tell daddy I love him. I love you so much, Pray for me, Joey."
RIP, Joseph Brown.
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