Arabic version: وزير الصحة يدعم التحقيق في وفاة الطفلة ويليو هورن

Western Australia’s Health Minister Meredith Hammat has expressed support for a coronial inquest into the death of eight-month-old Willow Katarina Horne, who died at Kalgoorlie Health Campus on the morning of September 9, 2025. However, she stopped short of formally requesting the inquest, leaving the decision to the independent state coroner.

According to ABC News, a clinical review of Willow’s case found opportunities to improve care but did not identify medical negligence. The review suggested myocarditis, a rare heart condition, as the likely underlying cause of death. Willow was admitted to the hospital for respiratory issues and died shortly before she could be transferred to Perth Children’s Hospital.

Willow’s parents, Kaydence Sutherland and William Horne, have called for a coronial inquest, expressing their devastation over their daughter’s death. They felt unprepared for the outcome while at the hospital, which they believed assured them of Willow’s recovery.

The clinical review led by WA Country Health Service executive director of clinical excellence Helen Van Gessell highlighted areas for improvement, including better communication and staffing oversight. While no staff members have been reprimanded, the parents seek further investigation to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Opposition health spokesperson Libby Mettam criticized the minister’s failure to formally request an inquest, emphasizing the importance of an independent investigation.