Overview
- A senior coroner concluded at an inquest this week that the July 2022 death of 35‑year‑old Daniel Smith was accidental and not unlawful killing.
- The coroner found Smith died from an out‑of‑hospital cardiac arrest linked to acute behavioural disturbance after taking cocaine and other drugs.
- A Home Office pathologist told the hearing that a neck hold used during restraint 'more than minimally contributed' to the timing of the cardiac arrest.
- The coroner accepted Dr Charlie Thame acted in self‑defence, estimated the restraint lasted no longer than one minute 45 seconds, and said there was no criticism of his conduct.
- Devon and Cornwall Police interviewed and released Dr Thame and have confirmed no further action will be taken, leaving questions about citizen interventions and drug‑related violent episodes in the community.