A highways employee experienced a cardiac event while awaiting emergency medical services, according to testimony presented at an inquest.

The worker, identified as Jeffrey Eatwell, was employed as a driver for Volker Highways. The incident occurred while he was performing highway inspection duties in Berkshire on December 4, 2024, when he fell backwards while removing a branch.

He ultimately succumbed to his injuries at John Radcliffe Hospital in Headington.

During proceedings at Reading Coroner’s Court on Tuesday, evidence revealed that after falling backwards, the individual reported hip pain but remained lucid during the initial emergency call placed just before 12:40pm.

Court proceedings were informed that the emergency operator indicated an ambulance arrival could require exceeding two hours for the 72-year-old, who was described as well-regarded.

The inquest heard that his medical condition declined during the extended wait period, and he had become unresponsive by the time a second emergency call was initiated approximately at 1pm.

Medical assistance was administered by an off-duty ambulance crew member who came upon the scene, alongside two law enforcement officers.

Efforts to resuscitate the individual using an Automated External Defibrillator were unsuccessful as the device was unable to deliver a therapeutic shock.

Emergency response vehicles including an ambulance and air ambulance reached the location just before 1:30pm, and he was transported to the medical facility.

Despite receiving aggressive medical intervention, his recovery prospects remained poor, and he passed away ten days subsequent on December 14, 2024, following removal of life support systems.

The court was informed that South Central Ambulance Service performed an internal examination of the two emergency calls and determined both had been categorized appropriately.

The initial call had been classified as an urgent category three response, which nationally applies to suspected hip injuries where the patient remains conscious with normal respiratory function.

The subsequent call, placed after the individual became unresponsive, was designated as a life-threatening emergency category one response.

The internal review reportedly uncovered certain areas for improvement, which were handled through internal protocols.

Evidence presented indicated Mr. Eatwell had been hired as a driver by Volker Highways and clearing vegetation fell outside his job responsibilities.

Presenting evidence to the jury as the inquest reached its final stages on March 24, the coroner detailed how Mr. Eatwell had been characterized as a diligent, self-sufficient 72-year-old who was beloved by family and known for his generosity, describing him as a gentleman who relished physical activity.

The jury determined Mr. Eatwell’s death resulted from an accident due to complications arising from injuries sustained in his fall.

Upon the jury’s determination, the coroner expressed gratitude to Mr. Eatwell’s family for their dignified contribution to the inquest, acknowledging the proceedings had undoubtedly been an emotional experience for them.