Inquest Hearing to Examine Death of Joseph Lawrence Parker
Avon Coroner’s Court, Bristol – April 30 2024
Joseph (known by Joe to his friends and family) Lawrence Parker, aged 18, passed away following critical errors during medical intervention, specifically involving an erroneous intubation procedure, while under the care of the emergency department at North Bristol NHS Trust at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, in April 2022. Now an inquest will open to examine the circumstances of his death and the care he received.
Joseph’s mother describes him as a “bright, beautiful shining light,” proud of his academic achievements and his compassionate nature. From his exceptional performance at school to his anticipated journey to Warwick University for a degree in advanced maths.
On February 17, 2022, Joseph’s mother discovered him unresponsive, prompting an emergency response by paramedics; he was transferred, conscious, to Southmead Hospital. Despite efforts by medical professionals, Joseph’s condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to cardiac arrest. Subsequent investigations revealed critical errors in the initial medical interventions, including the misplacement of a tracheal tube into the oesophagus instead of the trachea, leading to severe oxygen deprivation and non-reversible brain damage.
The inquest will scrutinise the events leading up to Joseph’s passing, focusing on the adequacy of his care, the response of healthcare providers, and any systemic factors contributing to Joseph’s death. The Coroner may garner insights with the aim to prevent similar occurrences in the future, ensuring safer drills in the provision of emergency care during intubation.
Joseph’s family said:
“Joe was a happy, fun, kind and caring person right on the verge of becoming an adult. He had his life taken away needlessly just 21 days after his 18th birthday where he had his whole life in front of him. It has left us broken as a family, leaving such a hole in our lives that can never be repaired.
“The devastation that has been caused by the errors of North Bristol NHS Trust is something we have to live with for the rest of our lives; there are no words to express what we now have to live with every day.”
