The inquest into the death of Jason Hoganson, who played a drifter named Pete in the 1987 cult film Empire State, concluded he died from natural causes compounded by drug use. Hoganson was among hundreds of prisoners released early in a bid to cut jail overcrowding.
Release and Reoffending
Hoganson walked free from HMP Durham in September 2024 after serving half of an 18-month sentence for attacking his former partner and violating a restraining order. The day after his release, he was detained in Newcastle's West End following an incident at his ex-partner's residence where he struck her.
Addiction and Decline
His acting career stalled as he spiralled into addiction and criminality. Newcastle Coroner's Court heard that Hoganson, 55, was discovered dead at his lodgings on April 4. He had an extensive history of substance and alcohol misuse. A post-mortem examination determined his death resulted from bronco-pneumonia, with drug dependency being a major contributing element.
Hoganson worked with a rough-sleeping support officer who described his interaction with services as "erratic", in part because of his homelessness.
Inquest Conclusion
Coroner Georgina Nolan delivered a narrative conclusion, stating Mr Hoganson died due to natural causes and drug use. She extended her sympathies to the father-of-five's relatives and friends.
