Inquest Links Medicinal Cannabis to Man’s Mental Decline Before Fatal Fire

A Jersey inquest has found that prescribed cannabis products contributed to the mental health deterioration of David Morgan, 66, who died in a flat fire in August 2025.

Deputy Viscount Matt Berry concluded that Morgan’s increasingly erratic behaviour and psychotic symptoms contributed to the fire and his inability to escape. The fire was believed to have started accidentally when a heater was placed too close to a sofa while he slept.

The inquest heard that Morgan’s family and GP had raised concerns about his mental health. His GP, Dr Lisa Clynes, warned that cannabis was not in his best interests, but two further prescriptions were issued after her letter.

The coroner also identified missed opportunities for a direct mental health assessment in the days before Morgan’s death and found that prescribing guidelines had not been followed.

Health Minister Tom Binet said action was needed to strengthen oversight of unlicensed medicinal cannabis prescriptions. A consultation is due to begin this month, with new legislation expected in early 2027, including requirements for face-to-face appointments.

Berry recommended that cannabis products should not be prescribed to new patients with mental health conditions while the prescribing arrangements are reviewed.