Inquest into the death of Alyce POLLETT

20y · Female·unascertained

Alyce Pollett, a 20-year-old pregnant woman, was found dead in her bed on 14 July 2011 after being unwell for approximately one week with flu-like symptoms. Autopsy findings were concerning for possible asphyxia due to neck compression, with deep bruising to the anterior and posterior neck, petechial haemorrhages, and abrasion injuries. However, three independent forensic pathologists acknowledged that classical strangulation injuries were absent and could not definitively establish the cause of death. No evidence connected the suspected perpetrator (the baby's father) to the death. The coroner concluded the cause was unascertained. Clinically, this case highlights the challenges of diagnosing sudden unexplained death; the importance of pregnant women receiving robust psychosocial support and safety assessment when intimate partner violence is disclosed; and the need for medical professionals to escalate concerns about threats to police rather than solely advising the victim.