Coroner's Finding: Plummer, Samuel Anthony

34y · Male·sudden unexpected death in a person with epilepsy (SUDEP)

Samuel Anthony Plummer, aged 34, died from sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) at his assisted living residence. He had longstanding epilepsy managed with sodium valproate and lamotrigine, with his last major seizure in July 2015. He was found unconscious in his bedroom approximately 45 minutes after retiring; despite immediate CPR and paramedic intervention, resuscitation was unsuccessful. Autopsy revealed peri-mortem tongue biting consistent with seizure activity but no other anatomical or toxicological cause. An electrical investigation identified a faulty heater with current leakage in his room, but electrocution was excluded. SUDEP remains a recognised risk in epilepsy; clinicians should counsel patients and carers on seizure recognition, first aid, and the unpredictable nature of SUDEP despite optimal medication management.