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Boy, 5, Dies After Milk Exposure at School
3 Dec
Summary
- Five-year-old Benedict Blythe died from food-induced anaphylaxis.
- He was exposed to cow's milk despite a severe allergy.
- Police investigation into his death has been heavily criticized.
A devastating incident occurred at Barnack Primary School in Stamford, Lincolnshire, where five-year-old Benedict Blythe passed away on December 1, 2021. Benedict, a bright child who was a member of Mensa, suffered from severe allergies to milk, eggs, and nuts. He succumbed to food-induced anaphylaxis after an accidental exposure to cow's milk.
Tragedy struck during morning break when the milk intended for Benedict was not poured separately as usual. Instead, it was prepared in the staff room, leading to an accidental exposure. Shortly after consuming it, Benedict vomited and collapsed, despite the administration of adrenaline pens. His condition rapidly deteriorated, and he stopped breathing.
An inquest later revealed serious failings in the police investigation. The coroner raised concerns about the lack of retention of crucial samples, including vomit, which could have aided in determining the cause of death more swiftly. Recommendations have been made to improve future investigations into similar child fatalities.
