On December 1, 2023, a fatal industrial accident occurred at East of England Co-op Funeral Services in Swaffham, Norfolk, UK. Sally Blundell, a 58-year-old funeral administrator, died after being crushed by an “external object,” causing severe chest injuries. Despite the arrival of emergency services and an air ambulance, Blundell was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into the incident started on January 5, 2024, at the Norfolk Coroners’ Court. Pathologist Laszlo Igali identified the medical cause of death as “contusion and compression of the chest by an external object.”
The specifics of the accident are yet to be fully disclosed. However, there is ongoing speculation that a hoist, often used in the funeral service industry to lift heavy objects, may have been involved. The exact role of this piece of equipment in the accident is yet to be confirmed.
The local investigative authorities have officially classified the incident as an accident. Blundell had been with the funeral home team at the Swaffham branch for over eight years. Her death led the company to release a statement acknowledging her dedicated service to the community and extending condolences to her family and friends.
Following the accident, the Swaffham branch of the funeral service temporarily halted operations. The closure was both a mark of respect for Blundell and a facilitation of the initial stages of the investigation into the tragic event.
Norfolk’s senior coroner Jacqueline Lake has scheduled a follow-up hearing for April 5, 2024, to delve deeper into the details surrounding Blundell’s death. The Norfolk Constabulary and Breckland Council, with a focus on health and safety standards and practices, are involved in the ongoing investigation.
The funeral home has been fully cooperative with the investigative authorities. However, they have chosen not to make any immediate public comments regarding the incident.
