'No criminal charges' over woman who 'woke up' at Darlington hospital after being declared dead

Olive Martin, 54, died on 13 October 2023. Credit: Durham Constabulary

A police investigation into how a woman was wrongly declared dead by paramedics has concluded that no criminal charges will follow.

Olive Martin, 54, was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital on October 13 last year after she had been pronounced dead by the North East Ambulance Service, only for signs of life to be detected.

Ms Martin subsequently died at the hospital and an investigation by Durham Police began.

The force has said its inquiries have been completed, a file has been passed to the coroner and no criminal charges will follow.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it is aware of the incident and will await the outcome of an inquest.

Olive Martin died at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Ms Martin’s family contacted the emergency services last October when they were concerned after not being able to contact her and an ambulance crew attended.

In a statement, they said: “Our Mam will always be remembered for her kind heart, her infectious personality and her positivity day in and day out.

“She was our warrior, and she will be deeply missed by every person she has ever met. We would request privacy at this difficult time.”

Durham Police said: “Our thoughts are with the family, who continue to be supported by our specialist family liaison officers.

“A coroner’s inquest has been opened and will resume in due course.”

The North East Ambulance Service issued an apology for the distress caused to the family following her death. Credit: PA

A CQC spokesperson said: “We are aware of this case and the ongoing inquest.“We await the final coroner’s report which will be reviewed in full to determine whether further action may be required by CQC.

“Services provided by the trust are subject to ongoing monitoring and where we receive information to suggest any risk to patients, we will always follow it up to ensure people are receiving safe care.”

Last year NEAS apologised to Ms Martin’s loved-ones for the distress they have suffered.

Andrew Hodge, NEAS director of paramedicine, said at the time: “The paramedics on scene were faced with a complex clinical case and we are working closely with our partners and other agencies involved to understand the full picture of what happened.”

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...