44-Year-Old Lawyer Found Deceased on Flight to UK After Sleeping on Mother's Shoulder

A 44-year-old American lawyer known as Rachel Green died during a Delta flight from Minnesota to the United Kingdom, where she was headed to conduct research for a book. According to a recent court hearing at a West London Coroners Court, Green fell asleep on her mother's shoulder on April 30, 2025, and tragically did not regain consciousness.

Cabin crew made attempts to awaken Green and sought the assistance of a doctor, but all efforts at revival were unsuccessful, as reported by The Sun.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Green had several prescription medications in her system, including antidepressants, melatonin, cannabinoids, and a small amount of alcohol.

Officials highlighted that she also had a preexisting heart condition which, combined with the medications, likely contributed to her untimely demise.

Senior Coroner Lydia Brown remarked in court, “This lady simply died whilst on a flight. She was coming to our country to do some research and was meant to spend time with her mother.” The coroner reflected on the sad circumstances of not finishing the book Green had been working on.

Pathologist Dr. Alan Bates indicated to the court that Green's heart appeared normal aside from an issue with one of her coronary arteries covered by myocardial tunneling, a condition known for affecting coronary artery structure.

Green's sister, Roxanne Carney, expressed concerns regarding the number and combination of prescription drugs her sister was taking, noting that Green had previously recorded abnormal heart tests. Carney questioned why a referral to a cardiologist was never suggested.

In a touching tribute, Carney described her sister as a dedicated attorney specializing in insurance and someone who had a great passion for history. She expressed her profound loss, saying, “On April 30, 2025, we lost an angel on earth and gained one in heaven. My beloved sister, Rachel S. Green, passed away peacefully in her sleep as she was flying from Minneapolis to London for a much-anticipated trip to the UK. My sister was the absolutely most incredible and selfless person in this world.”