James Alexander Edward Duncan, a two-year-old boy, died on July 17th, 2025. His death occurred at the Cumberland Infirmary, just two weeks after his second birthday.
The inquest was opened by Senior Coroner for Cumbria, Kirsty Gomersal, on April 9th. She expressed her condolences to James’ family during the proceedings.
Circumstances of Death
James was found unresponsive at home before being taken to the Cumberland Infirmary. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at 5.23pm on the day of his passing.
Post-Mortem Findings
A paediatric post-mortem was conducted, which indicated that the cause of death was ‘unascertained, query Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood’. This uncertainty necessitated the inquest.
Investigation Details
The coroner’s office has requested a statement from a police officer who attended the scene. This statement will detail the circumstances of the police response and any subsequent investigation.
Further Information Required
Disclosure has also been requested from the North West Ambulance Service regarding James’ transport to the hospital. Additionally, information from the clinician who treated him is needed.
Next Steps
Once all necessary disclosures are received, the coroner will decide if witnesses need to attend the inquest. The provisional date for the inquest is set for July 23rd.
