An American lawyer, Rachel Green, tragically lost her life after falling asleep on her mother’s shoulder during a UK-bound Delta Airlines flight from Minnesota to London.
Green, 44, was travelling with her mother on April 30, 2025, for a research trip connected to a novel she was writing.
According to proceedings at the West London Coroners Court, Green dozed off during the flight but never woke up.
Cabin crew reportedly became concerned when she failed to respond and called for medical assistance onboard. Despite resuscitation efforts, she was pronounced dead before the aircraft landed.
Court findings revealed that Green had a mixture of prescription medications in her system, including antidepressants, melatonin, cannabinoids, as well as a small amount of alcohol.
Officials also confirmed she had an underlying heart condition, which was believed to have contributed to her sudden death alongside the drugs.
Senior Coroner Lydia Brown described the tragedy as deeply heartbreaking, noting that Green had been excited about her research trip and time in the UK with her mother.
“She simply died while on a flight. Instead of beginning her journey, her mother and sister were left bereaved before she could even leave the plane,” the coroner said.
Pathologist Dr Alan Bates explained that although Green’s heart appeared largely normal, one coronary artery was affected by myocardial tunnelling — a congenital condition where part of the artery runs through heart muscle instead of resting on its surface.
Her sister, Roxanne Carney, raised concerns during the hearing about the number of medications Green had been prescribed, questioning why she had not been referred to a heart specialist despite abnormal test results.
“I wonder why she was never sent to a cardiologist before being given this combination of drugs,” she said.
In an emotional tribute, Carney described her sister as a dedicated attorney with a deep love for history and writing.
“On April 30, 2025, we lost an angel on earth and gained one in heaven,” she said. “Rachel was the most incredible and selfless person.”
The case has sparked renewed conversations about prescription drug interactions and the importance of cardiac screening, especially for patients with underlying heart conditions.
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