Jesse's Tragic Death and the Failed Inspection | Auckland News

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in 2018 when 12-year-old Jesse Samuel died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a portable shower unit at his family’s bach — a preventable death caused by a faulty, improperly installed gas water heater. The heater, not designed for enclosed spaces and bearing a warning sticker, was fitted by gasfitter Gary Hale, who has since passed away. His colleague Michael Cartwright signed off on the work without inspecting it himself, later admitting he failed to supervise adequately and accepted responsibility for the oversight. Cartwright testified at the inquest with profound remorse, saying he thinks of Jesse every day. Both Cartwright and his company faced legal action, resulting in over $120,000 in fines under plumbing regulations. Jesse’s mother spoke movingly at the inquest, calling for accountability and honoring her son as a kind, athletic young man and loving older brother. The inquest continues, with more testimonies expected. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/197aa2273e69f19f