Anthony Metzer QC represented the family of a child in the 5-day inquest to establish the cause of their death on 1st June 2016 at home. Due to having complex medical needs, the child could not maintain their own airway and this was maintained instead by way of a tracheotomy.
The inquest concluded on 28th April 2017 and the Coroner was satisfied that the displacement of the child’s tracheotomy, while the child was sleeping in the night and in the care of a Pulse Healthcare carer, set in motion the process leading to the child’s death.
Further, the Coroner found that there was a delay in the discovery of the tracheotomy dislodgement and in the carer calling for help – this having been found to be a gross failure. The Coroner concluded that the child’s death was accidental but contributed by negligence.
Anthony Metzer QC was instructed by McMillan Williams Solicitors.
Related barristers: Anthony Metzer KC
Related practice areas: Inquests and Inquiries