Lauren Karmel was instructed by Bristol City Council in the inquest touching upon the death of Abdul Oryakhel, who died on 25th September 2022 whilst escaping a fire in his flat on the 16th floor of Twinnell House, Bristol, which was managed by Bristol City Council.
The Senior Coroner for Avon heard evidence that the cause of the fire was the local overheating and catastrophic failure of a lithium iron battery pack causing significant fire development. The only possible sources of ignition were found to be a privately owned e-bike from a tenant living at Twinnell House and associated charging equipment.
The Senior Coroner heard evidence that the fire was contained in accordance with the building design of Twinnell House and applicable fire safety measures at the time.
Lauren successfully secured a short form conclusion of accidental death.
A Prevention of Future Deaths Report was made to the following organisations over concerns of a lack of understanding surrounding the dangers with Lithium-ion batteries used for e-bikes and e-scooters:
- Office for Product Safety and Standards
- Department for Transport
- The West of England Combined Authority.
For press reports see:
Lauren has been ranked as a ‘Rising Star’ in Inquests and Public Inquiries in the latest edition of the Legal 500. She has been described as having an eye for detail and can be relied upon as an advocate to ensure the family’s questions and concerns are central in the process. Find out more about Lauren here.