An inquest was conducted by Mr Coroner DeCoursey and a jury at the Limerick Lunatic Asylum to investigate the death of a patient named A.G., who was found hanged in the loft of a timber shed. The inquiry aimed to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

According to the evidence presented, it was revealed that the deceased, along with other patients, had been working in the carpenters’ shop. When the danger bell rang, indicating the end of their shift, the attendant, Patrick P., instructed the patients to leave for the dining area. However, during the commotion, the deceased went unnoticed and was later discovered in the described state.

Dr Coffey, the Assistant Medical Superintendent of the Asylum, was immediately on the scene and performed artificial respiration in an attempt to revive the patient. Despite these efforts, the deceased could not be revived. It was noted that the deceased had not previously displayed any suicidal tendencies, and there was no discernible motive for the act.

After careful consideration, the jury concluded that the deceased died by hanging while in an unsound state of mind. They further determined that no blame could be attributed to the attendant for the incident.

The tragic suicide has cast a sombre atmosphere over the Limerick Lunatic Asylum, prompting a review of safety measures and heightened vigilance to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Dublin Evening Telegraph – Tuesday 19 January 1904