Coroner calls for new law after man delayed calling ambulance for partner
A coroner has proposed new laws after a man delayed calling an ambulance for his unresponsive partner in Maryborough.
Belinda Ann Jones, 40, collapsed in her bathroom and lay unresponsive for two hours before her partner called an ambulance. Belinda Ann Jones died on July 19, 2023 of meningitis, endocarditis, and blood poisoning.
The man told police he did not know what to do. The inquest found the hospital missed signs of a blood-borne infection.
An emergency medicine expert said antibiotics given earlier might have saved her life. The coroner has proposed new criminal laws to the Victorian attorney-general.
The new law would create an offence for abandoning a victim in medical need. Police did not charge the man at the time.
- Belinda Ann Jones, 40
- Victim's name and age
- Maryborough
- Location
- Two hours
- Delay before calling ambulance
- Meningitis, endocarditis, septicaemia
- Causes of death
Why it mattersThe recommendation may require people to seek help for a person in medical crisis.
AustraliaVictoria's laws could change to require faster response to medical emergencies and hold people accountable for delay in seeking help.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 7 d ago
