Inquest opens nearly two years after sepsis death

An inquest has been opened into the death of an amateur footballer who died from a bacterial infection and a flesh-eating disease.

Luke Abrahams, 20, from East Hunsbury, Northampton, died on 23 January 2023 of sepsis and necrotising fasciitis.

His parents Richard Abrahams and Julie Needham believe errors in his care, including his condition being initially wrongly diagnosed, might have led to his death.

At the inquest in Northampton, Anne Pember, the senior coroner for Northamptonshire, stated Mr Abrahams died of "natural causes" and adjourned the hearing until next year.

The inquest comes nearly two years on from the death of Mr Abrahams and was opened after Ms Pember received a letter from the Abrahams family.

Mr Abrahams was initially diagnosed by his GP as having tonsillitis and then sciatica, as he developed pains in his leg over the following week.

On 22 January he was taken to hospital where the full extent of the condition was finally discovered.

He had his leg amputated in an effort to save his life, but later died.

Mr Abrahams' death was recorded at the time as being of "natural causes" and an inquest was not held.

A serious incident investigation at the East Midlands Ambulance Service Trust has since found that the crew failed to follow guidelines and policies.

It concluded Mr Abrahams had displayed symptoms that should have been recorded as a red score - indicating an immediately life-threatening condition.

The investigation also described the failure to take Mr Abrahams to hospital as a "missed opportunity" to seek extra medical help, which could have prevented "deterioration".

Ms Pember also confirmed the body had been released.

The inquest has been adjourned until 22 May 2025.

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