Coroner's Finding: LAWRENCE Peter David

47y · Male·glioblastoma of the brain (glioblastoma multiforme, left frontal lobe)

Peter David Lawrence, aged 47, died from glioblastoma multiforme at Lyell McEwin Hospital. His brain tumour in the left frontal lobe caused behavioural changes including aggression, confusion, agitation and poor impulse control. He was detained under the Mental Health Act 1993 on 2 June 2007 after becoming unmanageable—attempting to leave hospital, behaving irrationally and requiring physical restraint. A psychiatrist confirmed the detention order on 3 June. By 4 June he became unresponsive and died on 5 June. The coroner found the detention lawful and appropriate, and that Mr Lawrence was treated humanely throughout. The case highlights challenges in managing psychiatric symptoms secondary to advanced malignancy and the intersection of palliative care with mental health legislation.