News Release Archive

JUSTICE--COMBINED MEDICATION TOXICITY CAUSE OF CLARKE DEATH
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The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has advised the death of 
Richard Albert Clarke, which occurred Nov. 10, 1996, was the
result of combined medication toxicity due to polypharmacy (the
presence of multiple drugs). Other contributing factors in the
death were coronary artery disease and obstructive sleep apnea
(an obstruction of the upper airway).

Mr. Clarke, 26, had been remanded to the forensic unit of the
Nova Scotia Hospital for a psychiatric evaluation when he died.

In accordance with the Fatality Inquiries Act, the chief medical
examiner will file his report with the acting chief judge of the
Provincial Court.

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Contact: Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
         902-428-4052

trp                      May 28, 1997 - 12:20 p.m.