(Statement of partner): Yesterday evening (day before death)
he complained about chest pains and had difficulty breathing
and was getting really hot – but refused medical help. He said
he would be OK. This morning as I was about to leave to go
to the nursery he complained of feeling hot and sweaty. I gave
him a bowl of water and a sponge to help him. He said he
would try and register with a doctor today. I left and went to
the nursery and whilst out I telephoned home to speak with
him but there was no reply. I made my way back home and
on opening the door I saw him collapsed at the top of the
stairs. I checked for a pulse and signs of breathing but there
was nothing. I telephoned for an ambulance who arrived
shortly afterwards. I then locked our home and made my way
to the hospital by bus with my children. I was then informed
by the staff at the hospital that he had died. PM toxicology:
methadone = 0.96mg/L. [Coronial file no. 41]