Death Probe into Patient

A PATIENT has been found dead in a Tyneside hospital.

John McLaughlin was receiving treatment in the Tranwell Unit at Gateshead’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

The 25-year-old, of Woodburn Gardens, Lobley Hill, Gateshead, was discovered dead in the mental health unit on June 29.

A post-mortem has failed to pinpoint the cause of death.

Gateshead Coroner Terence Carney has opened an inquest and adjourned the hearing for medical tests.

Police and health officials are carrying out enquiries. The unit is run by the Northumberland Tyne & Wear Mental Health Trust.

Caroline Parnell, head of corporate affairs and trust secretary, said: “The death of any patient is a tragedy for the individual and their families, and it is also felt keenly by those of our staff who cared for them.

“We will continue to give our full co-operation to the investigation.

“However, as this is still a matter for the coroner’s court to consider, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further.”

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