An inquest has opened into the death of a Romford woman who was found unresponsive after consuming a mix of drugs and alcohol, East London Coroner’s Court has heard.

Death of Samantha Johnson

Samantha Johnson, 36, of Bellhouse Road, was discovered by her partner on the morning of January 25, 2025, after reportedly taking an unknown quantity of a Class A drug, along with antihistamines and alcohol. Paramedics arrived to find no heart activity and attempted CPR for two hours, but she was sadly pronounced dead at hospital.

Toxicology tests confirmed that Samantha died from cardiorespiratory depression caused by the combination of substances. She also suffered aspiration pneumonia, suggesting she had vomited and inhaled the contents into her lungs.

Coroner’s Directions

Coroner Nadia Persaud formally opened the inquest on Thursday, May 22, and said it would proceed in the public interest. A final hearing is provisionally set for December 3.

Coroner’s officer Jean Smyth told the court that Samantha had last been seen alive around 3am, and was found “unresponsive” nearly eight hours later.

Mrs Persaud asked for a report from the family regarding Samantha’s background and any concerns they may have about her death. The family has been designated as “interested persons”, giving them legal rights to review evidence and question witnesses.

She also instructed her staff to investigate whether Samantha had been involved with any drug, alcohol, or mental health services prior to her death.