Zessin, Ralph Frederick

67y · Male·Raised intracranial pressure due to head injuries from a fall

A 67-year-old man died from severe head injuries sustained when he was pushed backwards through a hotel doorway during playful banter with another patron. He fell onto a concrete footpath and struck his head, suffering subdural and subarachnoid haemorrhage, brain contusions, and raised intracranial pressure. Despite maximal ICU support including intracranial pressure monitoring and medications, he did not regain consciousness. After 13 days, treatment was withdrawn at family request. The coroner found the push was intentional but not intended to cause harm—it occurred in a friendly context with both men drinking moderately. Medical management was appropriate; multiple hospital transfers occurred but did not contribute to the outcome as the injuries were unsurvivable. No clinical errors were identified.