An investigation has been launched following the tragic death of a 16-year-old boy at a care home near Preston. Emergency services were called to Hope House, located in Catforth, on October 27 after staff discovered the teenager unresponsive. Despite attempts to help him, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The young person has now been formally identified as Lucas Michael Johnson during the opening of an inquest held at Preston Coroners’ Court on Thursday, November 6.
During the short hearing, Area Coroner Kate Bisset confirmed that Lucas was originally from Grimsby but had been residing at the children’s home at the time of his death. It was noted that Lucas was found by a care worker on the premises. No further details regarding the circumstances of his death have yet been released, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and events leading up to the tragedy.
Hope House is a residential care facility for young people who require additional support, and news of Lucas’s passing has led to renewed questions about welfare and safeguarding procedures in children’s homes. Local authorities, along with the coroner’s office, are working to gather medical reports, witness statements, and documentation from the care home.
As the investigation continues, Lucas’s family, who are based in Grimsby, are being supported and will be given updates as more information becomes available. The full inquest will take place at a later date, once further evidence has been reviewed. The case remains ongoing.
