First-grade Denton Student Dies from Choking at School

On March 30, 2010, a Wayne Stuart Ryan Elementary student died from choking on food, according to a final determination by the Tarrant County medical examiner. According to the autopsy report released late Friday, Jensen Wright, 7, died from asphyxia. Her death was ruled an accident according to the medical examiner's website. Investigators also reviewed whether the girl suffered from a food allergy that triggered anaphylaxis, which is a serious allergic reaction.

Jensen had eaten a peanut butter sandwich and an apple on the day of the accident. As she stood in line to return to class, she began having trouble breathing, and a classmate called for a teacher to help. The teacher escorted Jensen to the nurse's office where she subsequently collapsed. Before Jensen collapsed, the nurse noted that her lips were blue, but her heart rate was normal. The nurse attempted the Heimlich maneuver and CPR, but without success unfortunately.

Our law firm has been following this matter closely.  When we first became aware of this tragic accident, we recognized the facts of the case may hit particularly close to home, since one of our lawyers has a son who suffers from serious food allergies.  We were surprised to hear that the blood tests indicated no anaphylaxis was involved.  Our thoughts go out to Jensen's family.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, every five days a child dies from choking in the United States.  It is the leading cause of death among children under 14. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident or as the result of someone else's negligence, please contact the Dallas injury attorneys at Reed and Riordan, PLLC today at 214.570.9555 or 888.229.8985.