The death of 19-year-old University of Canterbury student Samuel Finnemore has led a coroner to issue recommendations regarding the use of safety glass in older New Zealand homes.

The coroner’s report, released today, outlined the circumstances of Finnemore’s accidental death and highlighted potential safety improvements to prevent similar tragedies.

Sam died in the early hours of 1 November 2022 after crashing through the bay window of his property on Matipo Street flat and sustaining fatal sharp force injuries to his chest.

Despite immediate assistance from flatmates, bystanders, and emergency responders, the injuries were unsurvivable.

Coroner Borrowdale found that Sam’s injuries were caused by broken shards of standard pane glass, which were consistent with him striking the window and falling through it.

The coroner noted, “Large blood loss would have resulted from the severed pulmonary artery… there was an extremely low likelihood of survival within any feasible timeframe.”

While the coroner concluded that the death was accidental, the exact cause of Sam’s propulsion through the window remains unclear.

The report considered various possibilities, including disordered thinking upon waking, an accidental fall, or confusion, but could not determine a definitive cause.

“Regrettably, this inquiry has not yielded any conclusive answers as to what caused Sam to suddenly awaken and be lethally propelled through his bedroom window,” the coroner said.

Sam was medicated with isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for acne, which has been associated with rare but serious psychiatric side effects in some cases. However, both Sam’s prescribing dermatologist and the coroner found it “highly unlikely” that the medication contributed to his death.

The coroner highlighted the risks posed by standard pane glass commonly found in older New Zealand homes, such as Sam’s 1920s flat. Unlike modern safety glass, standard glass shatters into sharp, dangerous shards upon impact.

“Notwithstanding Sam having come forcefully into contact with his bedroom window, if that window had been made from safety glass his injuries would not have been so extensive and may not have been lethal,” the coroner said.

The report recommended that homeowners consider replacing older-style pane glass with safer alternatives such as toughened or laminated glass. “Homeowners who are concerned about the hazard of standard glass can seek advice from glass suppliers or the Window and Glass Association NZ,” the report added.

The coroner acknowledged the loss felt by Sam’s family, friends, and loved ones. “Sam was an adored son, family member, student, and friend to many,” the coroner said, extending condolences to those grieving.

Sam’s father, Cameron, described the death as “completely unthinkable,” saying the family sought closure and answers, though these could never bring Sam back.