Tragic In-Flight Death of American Lawyer Heading to UK for Research
In a heartbreaking aviation incident, a 44-year-old American attorney died while sleeping on her mother's shoulder during a transatlantic flight bound for the United Kingdom. The tragic event occurred on April 30, 2025, aboard a Delta Air Lines flight from Minnesota to London, where Minnesota-based lawyer Rachel Green was traveling to conduct research for a novel she was writing.
Failed Resuscitation Attempts and Medical Response
According to testimony presented this week at West London Coroners Court, cabin crew members attempted to wake Green after she fell asleep on her mother's shoulder during the flight. When she failed to respond, they urgently requested assistance from any physician on board. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by medical personnel, Green could not be revived and was pronounced dead on the aircraft.
Senior Coroner Lydia Brown emotionally addressed the courtroom, stating, "This lady simply died whilst on a flight. She was coming to our country to do some research, staying for some time with her mother. Instead, she did not even get off the plane without her mother and sister being bereaved. Poor Rachel never did finish that book. I wish it were different; it is not."
Medical Findings and Prescription Drug Cocktail
Official toxicology reports presented during the hearing revealed that Green had a complex combination of prescription medications in her system at the time of her death. These included several antidepressant medications, melatonin supplements, cannabinoids, and a low concentration of alcohol. Medical authorities determined that this pharmaceutical cocktail, combined with a preexisting heart condition, likely contributed to her sudden passing.
Pathologist Dr. Alan Bates provided detailed medical testimony, explaining that Green's heart appeared generally normal except for one significant abnormality. One of her coronary arteries exhibited myocardial tunnelling, a common congenital heart condition where a segment of the coronary artery runs through heart muscle tissue rather than over its surface. This anatomical variation can create additional cardiac stress under certain conditions.
Family Questions Medical Oversight and Prescription Regimen
Green's sister, Roxanne Carney, raised serious concerns during the hearing about the medical oversight her sister received prior to the fatal flight. Carney revealed that Green had previously received an abnormal heart test result but was never referred to a cardiologist for further evaluation.
"I wonder why she was never referred to a cardiologist before being prescribed this combination," Carney questioned during her testimony. "Why was she on this regimen? Why are they prescribing this combination of medications?" These poignant questions highlighted potential gaps in medical coordination that might have contributed to the tragedy.
Remembering Rachel Green: Attorney, Writer, and Beloved Family Member
In a moving final tribute during the coroner's hearing, Carney painted a vivid portrait of her sister's life and accomplishments. Rachel Green was described as a dedicated attorney who specialized in insurance law while maintaining a passionate interest in historical research. Her trip to London was specifically intended to gather material for a novel she had been writing, a creative project that now remains tragically unfinished.
"On April 30th, 2025, we lost an angel on earth and gained one in heaven," Carney stated emotionally. "My beloved sister and friend to so many, Rachel S. Green, passed away peacefully in her sleep as she was flying from Minneapolis to London for a much-anticipated trip to the UK. My sister was the absolutely most incredible and selfless person in this world."
The coroner's investigation continues to examine the circumstances surrounding Green's death, with particular attention to the interaction between her prescription medications and underlying heart condition. This tragic case highlights the importance of comprehensive medical evaluation, especially for individuals with complex medication regimens and preexisting health concerns.
