Inquest into the disappearance and suspected death of Peter Millett

45y · Male·unable to determine

Peter Anthony Millett, a 45-year-old man with schizophrenia, disappeared on 27 August 2013 and is presumed deceased. In the weeks preceding his disappearance, his mental health deteriorated significantly—he exhibited rapid speech, paranoid ideation about conspiracies, and appeared confused and distressed. Notably, he had stopped taking his antipsychotic medication (Zyprexia) after missing a scheduled appointment in May 2013. His general practitioner recognised that medication non-adherence would worsen psychotic symptoms and increase suicide risk. Although Peter's family and treating doctor initiated contact and attempted to arrange medical review, Peter refused help. No body was ever found despite extensive searches. This case highlights the critical importance of proactive mental health intervention when patients with established psychotic disorders become non-adherent with medication, deteriorate clinically, and refuse voluntary assistance. Early engagement with crisis mental health teams and consideration of involuntary assessment under mental health legislation may have altered the outcome.