Amanda Hughes, 56, collapsed while walking home in Pontypridd on May 31 and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services, an inquest opening has heard.
Drug use before death
The hearing at Pontypridd Coroner's Court on Wednesday was told Ms Hughes, who lived in the Rhydyfelin area of Pontypridd, had been smoking drugs with her partner and friend. Drug paraphernalia was also found at the scene.
Post-mortem findings
Ms Hughes' death was reported to the coroner by South Wales Police. A post-mortem examination was carried out at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant, with the provisional cause of death given as cocaine toxicity followed by coronary artery sclerosis.
Inquest adjourned
Area coroner Patricia Morgan said it was necessary to open a full inquest because she was satisfied there was reason to suspect Ms Hughes' death may have been unnatural. She adjourned the hearing for further investigation to be carried out. The full inquest, which may take place in writing, will be scheduled at a later date. Ms Morgan passed her condolences to Ms Hughes' family and friends.
