Finding into death of Claudette Marie Daw

77y · Female·Effects of fire

Claudette Marie Daw, a 77-year-old with longstanding schizophrenia, died in a house fire at her home while her brother was hospitalised. The fire originated in her bedroom and was accidentally ignited, likely by a discarded cigarette or direct ignition with a lighter or match. She died from smoke inhalation, with autopsy revealing carboxyhaemoglobin saturation of approximately 60% and elevated cyanide levels. The house lacked working smoke alarms, which the coroner noted might have provided early warning and evacuation time. Claudette's mental health was stable on long-term antipsychotic medication, and there was no evidence of suicidal intent or fire-setting behaviour. Her brother's decision to leave her at home during his brief hospitalisation was reasonable and consistent with previous successful independent management.