John Shenton

I am Mr John Penhale Ellery, Senior Coroner, for the coroner area of Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

On the 25 th April 2023 I commenced an investigation into the death of John Neil SHENTON. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on the 1st of August 2023 with a conclusion of Accidental Death. The medical cause of death was Ia) Bronchopneumonia Ib) Fractured Ribs and II) Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Type II Diabetes Mellitus

On the 17 th April 2023 Mr Shenton, together with his wife and son, went to the The Range, Forge Retail Park, Telford TF3 4PB. Mr Shenton was 82 years of age with limited mobility and was to that extent vulnerable. They initially tried to use the lift in the store but it was not in operation. They went to the first floor by escalator and subsequently Mr Shenton fell stepping on the descending escalator. Mr Shenton sustained injury and sadly as a result died 4 days later at the Princess Royal Hospital, Telford on the 21 st April 2023. The circumstances of the accident were investigated and are set out in a report from [REDACTED] Telford & Wrekin Council Environmental Health Officer.

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows. (1) At the inquest you not aware of the report and the recommendations/action required as set out in paragraphs 5.1 to 5.8. (2) Those actions remain outstanding and should be addressed. (3) Essentially whilst the descending escalator was fit safe for a non-vulnerable person more should be done to protect a vulnerable person, particularly if they have to use the escalator when the lift is not in operation.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe your organisation have the power to take such action.