Queensland Coroner Rules Double Murderer Francis Michael Fahey Died of Natural Causes
A Queensland coroner has officially ruled that Francis Michael Fahey, a former ambulance officer convicted of two brutal murders, died of natural causes while in custody. The finding brings a legal close to the case of a man whose criminal history not only devastated families but likewise led to significant changes in the Queensland legal system.
Death in Custody Findings
Coroner Terry Ryan determined that Fahey, 70, passed away on April 18, 2023. The death occurred after Fahey was transferred from prison to a Brisbane hospital due to shortness of breath. According to the coroner’s findings, Fahey had been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma in March 2023.
The official cause of death was ruled as natural causes resulting from metastatic cancer, with ischaemic heart disease also contributing to his death. Following the discovery of Fahey on a hospital bed without medical equipment attached, Coroner Ryan directed police to investigate the circumstances to ensure there was no foul play. The investigation found no signs of trauma or indications of a suspicious death.
Inquest Results
A one-day inquest concluded that Fahey received adequate health care during his final days. The findings explicitly stated that neither the hospital, corrective services, nor other inmates contributed to his death.
Criminal History and Convictions
Fahey’s path to prison was marked by a violent transition from saving lives to taking them. A former ambulance officer, Fahey was sentenced to 25 years in September 2005 for the murders of two inner-Brisbane sex workers.
- Jasmin Crathern: Murdered in August 2002.
- Julie McColl: A New Zealand-born woman murdered in February 2003.
Evidence presented during his trial revealed that Fahey used a bayonet, which he kept under the front seat of his ute, to stab the victims. During police interviews, Fahey admitted to the stabbings but claimed he did not recall the events, stating, “I’ve spent all my f***ing life saving lives and now I’m taking them and I don’t know why.”
Impact on Queensland Law
The Fahey case had implications beyond his own sentencing. His ability to murder Julie McColl in February 2003 occurred while he should have been incarcerated, following a failed appeal in a separate case. This failure in the system led Queensland to close a legal loophole that previously prevented the immediate return of prisoners to jail after failed appeals.
- Cause of Death: Natural causes (metastatic melanoma and ischaemic heart disease).
- Date of Death: April 18, 2023.
- Convictions: Murder of Jasmin Crathern (2002) and Julie McColl (2003).
- Legal Legacy: His case prompted the closure of a legal loophole regarding prisoner appeals in Queensland.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Francis Michael Fahey die?
He died of natural causes resulting from metastatic cancer and ischaemic heart disease while receiving treatment in a Brisbane hospital.
What was Fahey’s profession before his convictions?
Fahey was a former ambulance officer.
Was there any evidence of foul play in his death?
No. Coroner Terry Ryan found no signs of trauma or indications of a suspicious death, and the inquest confirmed he received adequate health care.