SINGAPORE — “Overwhelming evidence” shows that American researcher Shane Todd had committed suicide and the homicide theory put forth by his family with a “conspicuous absence” of supporting evidence is “entirely misplaced and unfounded”, said Senior State Counsel Tai Wei Shyong, as he made his closing submissions at the Coroner’s Inquiry into Todd’s death yesterday.

There were also “no assumptions” made by the state as to the cause of or circumstances surrounding Todd’s death, Mr Tai said.

A total of 73 witnesses were called for the 10-day inquiry and 44 of them took the stand. Todd was found hanged in his apartment in Singapore on June 24 last year. His parents believe he was murdered over sensitive research work done at the Institute of Microelectronics (IME), where he was employed.

However, Mr Tai yesterday said that there was no evidence of foul play, no possible suspect and no “credible motive” for murder.

Senior Counsel Philip Jeyaretnam, representing the IME, said in written submissions that Todd was an “entry-level researcher” and did not come into possession of highly confidential or valuable information while at the IME.

He also said Todd appeared to have concerns about getting security clearance for his new job in the United States. Given the evidence, it is “completely wrong” for the Todd family to have suggested that Todd was murdered because he possessed “valuable secrets”, Mr Jeyaretnam said.

Mr Tai also said that Todd — who suffered from major depressive disorder — made numerous suicide and depression-related Internet searches on his laptop between March 10 and June 23 last year, which show that Todd had “suicidal ideations”.

In their conditioned statements, Todd’s parents — who walked out of the inquiry after expressing dissatisfaction with the proceedings — said that Todd had indicated to them that his life was in “some form of danger” and told them to call the US Embassy if they did not hear from him.

But evidence given by psychiatrist Nelson Lee — whom Todd sought treatment from — “suggests” that Todd “may have exaggerated” the problems he was facing, Mr Tai said.

There is also no evidence from Todd’s parents nor others that he made efforts to protect his safety by contacting the US Embassy or the police, he added.

State Coroner Chay Yuen Fatt visited Todd’s apartment last Thursday, accompanied by police officers.

Speaking to reporters outside the courtroom yesterday, Mr Tai said that the Todds’ claims — including how the police and other government agencies may have “acted improperly” — were “looked into” and all the evidence they provided were also presented during the inquiry.

“We actually tried to investigate the theory angle and did whatever was possible but the evidence shows that their claims were unsubstantiated ... So I think we are in a much better position to assess the veracity of their claims.”

A verdict will be delivered on July 8.