10-06-2025
'Devastated' mother of Jersey man who died whilst under care of medics speaks at inquest
Channel
Inquest
Health
The family of a Jersey man who died after his care breached health and safety law say he will "never see his dreams come to fruition".
Frazer Irvine, 39, died in March 2022 from a cardiac arrest, whilst under the care of ambulance technician Tom Le Sauteur and paramedic John Sutherland.
At the inquest on Tuesday 10 June, Mr Irvine's mother described what she called the privilege of being his parent.
Linda Irvine explained how her son was "much loved" and a "dependable friend" who "relished his role as a big brother".
She added: "They say your legacy is what you leave in people. Frazer will never see his dreams come to fruition.
"He was too big a personality to ever be forgotten. His passing has devastated our family, and he is missed every day.
"When Frazer used to phone me, he used to end them with, 'Love you mum, more than you ever know'.
"In those last moments [...] I only hope he knew how much he was loved."
Le Sauteur and Sutherland were found guilty of failing to provide adequate care to Mr Irvine in the moments before his death under Jersey's Health and Safety Law.
During the trial last June, the Royal Court heard how the medics had failed to put Mr Irvine in the recovery position, did not recognise he was struggling to breathe, and failed to provide adequate care during resuscitation.
They were sentenced to a two-year conditional discharge from Jersey Ambulance Service and were ordered to pay £500 each in court costs.
Their subsequent appeal to overturn the conviction failed in October, and both men ultimately resigned from the service at the start of this year.
As part of the inquiry, Jersey Ambulance Service and the States of Jersey Police will be judged on whether there were any shortcomings in policies, procedures or guidance which could be relevant to Mr Irvine's death and if changes may help prevent similar deaths in the future.
The inquest is expected to continue until Friday 13 June.
