What caused the prisoner's death at HMP Eastwood Park?

The prisoner died from a hypoxic ischemic brain injury and a lower respiratory tract infection following a fire in her cell ignited by a vaping device.

Did the prisoner's cell have fire detection?

No, the inquest heard that the prisoner's cell was not equipped with an automatic fire detection device.

How long did it take for firefighters to rescue the prisoner?

It took 35 minutes for firefighters to safely remove the prisoner from her cell due to the intense heat.

Home / Crime and Justice / Inquest: Cell Lacked Fire Detection Before Prisoner Died

Inquest: Cell Lacked Fire Detection Before Prisoner Died

20 Feb

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Summary

Prisoner died after vaping device fire in her cell.
Cell lacked automatic fire detection, inquest heard.
Heat prevented staff rescue; firefighters took 35 minutes.

Inquest: Cell Lacked Fire Detection Before Prisoner Died

A prisoner's death following a fire in her cell has been detailed at an inquest. The 48-year-old, identified as Clare Dupree from Cardiff, died on December 28, 2022, at Southmead Hospital in Bristol. The fire occurred in her cell at HMP Eastwood Park two days prior.

It was revealed that Dupree's cell was not equipped with an automatic fire detection (AFD) device. Only battery-powered smoke detectors were located outside the cells. Prison staff were unable to enter due to extreme heat, and it took firefighters 35 minutes to safely remove her.