Family Seeks Answers at Jury Inquest

Inquest into Hanging

25/04/2008

The family of a Stockton man who hanged himself with a bedsheet whilst an inpatient of a psychiatric unit is hoping that an Inquest before a jury will clarify the circumstances surrounding his death.

The Inquest investigating the death of Jonathan Ferguson, who died in 2006 aged 25, is to begin on Monday, April 28th, at the Middlesbrough Coroner’s Court.

The Deputy Coroner for Middlesbrough, Anthony Eastwood, first started Jonathan's Inquest in January 2008. However, due to concerns that the circumstances of Jonathan's death, at the Stephenson Ward of the University Hospital of North Tees, could potentially have wider implications for public safety, the Inquest was adjourned in order to empanel a jury.

On admission to the hospital, Mr Ferguson was placed under a regime of 10 minute observations for his own safety, however on September 24th, 2006 he created a noose from his bedsheet and was found hanging from his iron bedframe which he had managed to turn into an upright position.

His family has instructed leading personal injury law firm Irwin Mitchell to represent them at the Inquest.

David Body, partner in the Medical Law and Patients' Rights team at national law firm Irwin Mitchell said: "Mr Ferguson's family are relieved that the circumstances of their son's death will be investigated fully before a jury. The findings of the inquest will provide Mr Ferguson's family with much needed answers regarding the circumstances surrounding Jonathan's untimely and tragic death.

"His family including parents, Colin and Julie Ferguson, and his brother, Michael Ferguson will be attending the inquest and are eager for it to reveal why their son was able to commit suicide in hospital when he was under a regime of close observation."