Tragic overdose claims Forest Gate electrician Lalji Vekaria, 49
An inquest has confirmed that electrician Lalji Kanji Vekaria died from an accidental overdose triggered by a deadly mix of alcohol and prescription painkillers.
Mr Vekaria, 49, of St Stephen’s Road, was found lifeless on October 4, 2024, at a property on Park Avenue, where he had been working and socialising with a friend. Paramedics battled to revive him for nearly an hour but sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Coroner rules accidental death caused by drug and booze cocktail
At East London Coroner’s Court on June 17, coroner Nadia Persaud delivered the grim verdict: Mr Vekaria’s death was accidental. The cause? Fatal respiratory depression from a toxic blend of alcohol, oxycodone, and pregabalin.
“There is no evidence that Mr Vekaria would have taken the substances with an intention to end his life,” Ms Persaud told the court.
Chronic pain and powerful meds in deadly mix
The inquest revealed Mr Vekaria had battled chronic spinal pain for years, resulting in multiple operations, confirmed by his GP at Plashet Harmony Practice in East Ham. To manage his suffering, he was prescribed strong opioid oxycodone and nerve pain drug pregabalin.
While pregabalin levels were normal, toxicology tests couldn’t pinpoint oxycodone levels. What stood out was his blood alcohol content — twice the legal drink-drive limit.
The post-mortem found no natural disease. Pathologists concluded the cocktail of substances slowed Mr Vekaria’s breathing until he stopped altogether in his sleep.
Family remembers “loving and sociable” Lalji
Speaking at the hearing, Mr Vekaria’s sister paid tribute:
“Outgoing, friendly, very loving and sociable… always one to help others.”
She shared that they spoke just one day before his death and he showed no signs of distress or illness. “There was nothing in that conversation that gave me cause for concern,” she added.
Last day: painting job, drinks, then tragic discovery
The court heard that on his final day, Lalji and a friend had been painting a house. After dinner and some alcohol, backed by severe pain, he lay down. His friend later found him unresponsive after noticing he had stopped snoring.
Warning: Mixing booze and opioids can kill
Health experts warn that combining opioids with alcohol is a deadly gamble. Even prescribed doses can cause respiratory depression and sudden death.
This heartbreaking case highlights the hidden dangers for people managing chronic pain with powerful prescription drugs while drinking.
If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription medications or chronic pain, help is available. Contact your GP, NHS 111, or specialist support organisations for advice and assistance.
