Coroner’s inquest to be held for woman who died suddenly in Moncton hospital

There will be a coroner's inquest for a young woman who died suddenly at a hospital in Moncton, N.B., a little more a year ago.

The Department of Justice and Public Safety confirmed to CTV News on Monday a coroner’s inquest will be scheduled for Kaytlyn Hemsworth.

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The 19-year-old died by suicide on April 11, 2023, while a patient at the psychiatric unit of the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre.

Kaytlyn Hemsworth is pictured. The 19-year-old died by suicide on April 11, 2023. (Courtesy: Sarah Hemsworth)

Inquests are mandatory in the province when a person dies a non-natural death while in a psychiatric facility, according to the Coroners Act.

Hemsworth’s autopsy says she died of hanging.

The department said the inquest into her death will likely begin before the end of the calendar year.

'Full of life and energy'

Hemsworth's mother Sarah told CTV News finding out about her daughter's death last year over the phone broke her world.

"It's something no mother should ever experience," said Hemsworth in an email.

Kaytlyn and Sarah Hemsworth are pictured. (Courtesy: Sarah Hemsworth)

She said she definitely has concerns with the hospital and the health-care system.

"Mental health is widely neglected basically due to inexperience, but youth mental health is especially important and especially a problem," said Hemsworth.

Hemsworth hopes the health-care system can develop a better mental health system and one for youth with special facilities to meet certain needs.

She doesn't believe hospitals in the region are equipped with the proper training and knowledge for youth or any individuals with more intricate mental health issues.

"Kaytlyn was not the first one experiencing mental health issues who’s lost their life in a Maritime hospital," she said.

Asked to describe her daughter, Hemsworth said she was full of life and energy.

The Hemsworth family is pictured. (Courtesy: Sarah Hemsworth)

"She was kind and always wanting to help, ate spaghetti on repeat and had a smile that would literally get her in trouble," said Hemsworth. "She loved playing games, did crafts every hour and loved spending time with all of her siblings but took a special bond with her little sister, Khloe, they were two peas in a pod."

Hemsworth said her daughter Kaytlyn left a large imprint on many people's lives and they will continue to hold her in their hearts. 

For more New Brunswick news visit our dedicated provincial page.