Investigation and inquest
On the 31st August 2022 I opened an investigation touching the death of Callum Wong who was 17 years old when he died. I opened an inquest on the 23rd September 2022. The inquest concluded on the 27th February 2023. The conclusion of the inquest was “Callum Wong killed himself ”, the medical cause of death was 1a Asphixia, 1b Hanging (suspension) and under paragraph 2 Mental Health Issues and Asthma.
Circumstances of the death
On the 27th August 2022 Callum Wong was found having hanged himself ████████
████████ Mr Wong had had suicidal thoughts in the past but having been supported by his family, overcome them. When Mr Wong had suicidal thoughts again, patient confidentiality issues resulted in those from whom he sought help, not informing his family.
Coroner’s concerns
1. Consideration for exceptions to patient confidentiality in cases of mental illhealth, where informing third parties of a patient’s condition may result in crucial non-medical support.