Family Shares Heartbreak at Son’s Loss During Inquest

Family Shares Heartbreak Over Man’s Death During Ambulance Response

A family has described their devastation after the death of Frazer Irvine, 39, who suffered a heart attack while two Jersey ambulance workers were at his home, his mother told an inquest.

The inquest into Mr. Irvine’s death, which occurred on 18 March 2022 following a 999 emergency call, began on Tuesday.

Reading from a prepared statement, Linda Irvine spoke fondly of her son, describing him as a “beautiful soul” — kind, generous, and always seeing the best in others. She said he never spoke ill of anyone.

The hearing is scheduled to conclude on Friday.

Remembering a ‘Beautiful Soul’

Paramedic John Sutherland and ambulance technician Tom Le Sauteur were previously found guilty of failing to take reasonable care of Mr. Irvine on the night he passed away. This verdict was upheld on appeal.

Coroner Bridget Dolan KC opened the inquest by inviting the family to share memories of Mr. Irvine.

Mrs. Irvine described her son as a charming and popular child who grew into a loving and dependable adult with a natural wit. He had a passion for music and nature, which inspired his career choice as a tree surgeon.

She revealed that Mr. Irvine struggled with anxiety after a painful breakup in his early 20s, which deeply affected both him and the family. Though confident outwardly, he was sensitive inside.

While the family is heartbroken by his loss, Mrs. Irvine emphasized that her son’s vibrant personality will never be forgotten.

She expressed her pain that, despite being the first to help others, when he needed help, “the people charged to do so couldn’t treat him like the kind human being he was until it was too late.”

She hoped that in his final moments, when he was left “abandoned” on a stairwell, he knew how deeply he was loved.

Events on the Night of His Death

The coroner also questioned two police officers who attended the scene, PC Aaron Buckley and PC Polly Wilton. They were called after paramedics reported aggressive behavior from Mr. Irvine.

The hearing reviewed body-worn camera footage from the officers, during which PC Wilton was heard noticing Mr. Irvine’s worsening condition, including changes in his breathing and complexion.

Mr. Irvine’s family thanked PC Wilton for her care and efforts on that night.