The reason behind the death of a mother and her newborn infant shortly after the home birth has been disclosed. Jennifer Cahill, 34, passed away a day after delivering her baby girl, Agnes, at their home in Prestwich. The tragic incident led to an ongoing investigation at Rochdale Coroners’ Court in June 2024.
During the court session conducted via videolink, pathologist Lisa Barker presented the results of Jennifer’s post-mortem examination. Dr. Barker, with two decades of experience in pathology, highlighted the presence of fluid in Jennifer’s chest, lungs, and kidneys, indicating multi-organ failure. Additionally, a three-centimeter tear was discovered in Jennifer’s vagina, leading to the suggested cause of death as multi-organ failure resulting from cardiac arrest due to postpartum hemorrhage.
Further evidence included discussions on Jennifer’s interactions on a Facebook group dedicated to home births. Detective Inspector Julie Adams from Bury police station’s statement was read by coroner Joanne Kearsley, shedding light on the Home Birth Support Group UK’s involvement in providing information. Screenshots from a concerned individual who followed media coverage of the inquest were shared with the authorities.
The court learned that Jennifer had sought advice in the group concerning her pregnancy in December 2023. The group’s administrator, Samantha Gadsden, informed the police that she had no prior conversations with Jennifer. It was emphasized in the group’s description that no medical advice was dispensed. Testimonies were also given by North West Ambulance Service personnel who responded to the Cahill residence on June 3, 2024.
Senior paramedic Sean Scroop, paramedic Adrian George, and emergency medical technician Leah Brennan recounted their experiences at the scene. Mr. Scroop detailed his efforts in caring for baby Agnes and assisting midwife Julie Taylor in resuscitating the infant before rushing her to the hospital. Meanwhile, Mr. George and Ms. Brennan remained at the home to support the midwives and prepare for the transfer to North Manchester General Hospital.
As Mr. Scroop worked on resuscitating Agnes, he noticed Jennifer’s condition and directed necessary actions for her care. While transporting Agnes to the hospital, Jennifer’s husband informed them of her worsening state. Mr. George, who was aware of Jennifer’s history of postpartum hemorrhage, observed her health decline under his watch. He mentioned Jennifer’s loss of blood during the placenta delivery and her deteriorating condition during the ambulance journey.
The inquest proceedings are set to resume in the following week.