Family Instruct Medical Negligence Lawyers To Secure Answers At Inquest

The family of former rugby player Nick Koster have revealed their heartbreak over his death – and asked lawyers to secure answers. 

The 34-year-old’s body was found close to the Priory Norwich the day before he was due to be discharged from the hospital, where he had been admitted following struggles with his mental health. Nick had been reported missing several hours after going for a walk.

Nick’s loved ones hope inquest will provide answers

His loved ones have now revealed how they hope an upcoming inquest will provide them with the “answers they, and Nick, deserve.”

His sister, Terena said: “It was less than four months after Nick first became concerned about his mental health, that he was then gone. Caring for Nick in those final months and then losing him will be the most devastating experience of my life.

“We’re heartbroken by Nick’s death and have so many questions about his care.”

Originally from South Africa, Nick and his family moved to the UK in 2012 to play for Bath Rugby. He moved to play for Bristol Bears in 2014, where he made 62 appearances as a flanker and helped them to secure promotion to the Premiership in 2016 before retiring in 2017.

Nick was also an accomplished academic, completing an MBA during his rugby career and a master’s degree at the University of Cambridge shortly after.

Madeline Nugent is the expert medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell supporting the family.

Expert Opinion

“Nick was first and foremost a much-loved husband, dad, son, and brother. He was also a very talented sportsman. Understandably, coming to terms with his death remains incredibly hard for his family.

“They continue to have a number of questions and concerns about the events that led up to Nick’s death and hope the forthcoming inquest will be able to provide them with the answers they and Nick deserve.

“Nothing can bring Nick back, but the inquest is important for his loved ones’ ensuring their concerns are investigated and addressed. If any issues are identified during the inquest, it will be vital that lessons are learned to improve patient safety for others.” Madeline Nugent

Mental health: Nick Koster’s story

Nick who had been living in Norwich, began to struggle with his mental health in March 2023. He was close to his family and informed them of his struggles, including increasing anxiety and insomnia. As his health continued to decline, Nick sought help from his GP and local Crisis Care teams. However, Nick’s family were concerned that his mental health was deteriorating rapidly and pushed for a more in-depth psychiatric evaluation.

As Nick and the family’s fears grew, he was admitted privately to Chelmsford Priory between the 10 - 24 May, 2023. Shortly after discharge, he was admitted to A&E on 13 June as his mental health declined further.

Nick was then admitted via the NHS to the Norwich Priory on the 14 June. The day before his expected discharge, on the 11 July - he requested to go for a walk. He left the Priory at 2.30pm.

At 7pm his wife, Jeannie, was called by Priory staff as he had not returned at the agreed time of 4.30pm to ask if Nick was with her, as he had not returned.

On arrival at the Priory, Jeannie discussed how they could best search for Nick. Jeannie tracked Nick by using her phone’s location tool revealing his phone was less than a mile away., Jeannie set off alone to find him but fearing the worst, the family suggested she return to the Priory and ask for support.

On returning to the location with Priory staff, a walker was present and had found Nick. Not long after the police and paramedics arrived confirming he had died.

Nick leaves behind Jeannie, two daughters, aged seven and three, his siblings Terena, 33, and JP, 38, his mum Lana-Anne, 61, and dad John, 62.

Terena pays tribute to her favourite person in the world

Terena said: “Since childhood, Nick and I were inseparable. He was my favourite person in the world and was adored by all who knew him. He was always the person to lean on and turn to, he was a pillar of strength for those around him. He was selfless and deeply empathetic.

“The tragedy and trauma of Nick’s death will continue to reverberate throughout our lives. Nick’s daughters are growing up without their dad and Jeannie is raising them without her husband.

“JP and I have lost not only a brother, but a confidant and best friend. My parents have outlived their son, something no parent should have to do. Our greatest hope is that the inquest at least provides us with some of the answers we have been desperately searching for and that learnings will come from this.”

An inquest into Nick’s death is due to be heard at Norwich Coroner’s Court from the 1 October 2024 and is expected to last two days.

Find out more about our expertise in supporting families affected by the death of a loved one at our dedicated failure to prevent suicide section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.