A teenager accused of killing their mother died just hours after doctors discovered they were suffering from a 'life-threatening' condition
A teenager accused of killing their mother died just hours after doctors discovered they were suffering from a "life-threatening" condition, an inquest was told. Rowan Thompson was an inpatient on the Gardener Unit at Prestwich Hospital when they passed away just days before they were due to appear in court.
However Rowan's test results were not communicated to those charged with their care on the Gardener Unit. They died the following day. Jurors were told that Rowan's mental health began to deteriorate following the death of their uncle. After spending time in a number of mental health hospitals, Rowan moved to live with their father in Barnsley, West Yorkshire.
Following their arrest, Rowan was detained under the Mental Health Act and admitted to the Gardener Unit. Mr Thompson said he visited regularly and while Rowan’s weight “fluctuated” during his time on the unit, he had no concern about their physical health. Dr Marsh said that between April and September, Rowan's weight dropped further from 71kg to 62kg. However, she said it was “not a concern” as Rowan reported eating well.
However, he ruled out medication as having contributed to the change. "To put it bluntly, I’m at a loss as to why he had low potassium,” he added.