Norwich musician drowned at swimming pool after epileptic fit

Dominic Hopkins played violin with Norwich Philharmonic, and led the orchestra between 2008 and 2016

An eminent musician died after suffering an epileptic fit in a swimming pool, a coroner has concluded.

Dominic Hopkins, 57, from Norwich, was swimming at the University of East Anglia (UEA) Sportspark in January 2022.

The coroner concluded the primary cause of death was multiple organ failure, Mr Hopkins having first drowned in the pool after experiencing the fit.

UEA Sportspark said it was "deeply saddened" by his death.

New technology had been introduced to the pool to help lifeguards better detect when a swimmer was in difficulty, it also said in a statement.

"The safety of our pool users has, and always will be, our priority. Following this incident, a full investigation took place," said a UEA Sportspark spokesperson.

"Where required, steps were taken to strengthen and update existing procedures and new technology was introduced.

"UEA Sportspark has cooperated with and supports the coroner's findings and conclusion.

"The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigated this incident and found that the UEA complied with good practice and adhered with the then current guidance."

HSE inspector Natalie Prince said: "We thoroughly investigated this incident and concluded there were no breaches of health and safety regulations.

"We also supported the coroner throughout the inquest. Our thoughts remain with the friends and family of Mr Hopkins."

Dominic Hopkins who had Marfan's Syndrome died after suffering organ failure and an epileptic fit whilst swimming at the UEA Sportspark pool

The musician played for several orchestras including the Norwich Philharmonic, which he led from November 2008 until March 2016.

Following his death, the orchestra said it was "devastated" by his passing, describing him as "an exceptionally fine violinist and a passionate musician, much-loved by all of us".

In a statement, the orchestra also said: "We were all deeply saddened by his death. The society was honoured to dedicate an orchestral concert to his memory in February 2022."

Keith Hobday of the ensemble Norwich Baroque added: "I think the whole of the musical community of Norwich and Norfolk misses Dominic after his untimely death in 2022.

"Just this morning I opened up the music for the opera Dido and Aeneas by [Henry] Purcell and saw his distinctive handwriting across the page.

"The glint in his eye, his cheeky smile, his huge intellect, his stellar playing and above all else, his kind, caring nature."

Mr Hopkins also had Marfan's syndrome, a disorder of the body's connective tissues.

People with severe forms of the syndrome can have problems with their eyes, joints and particularly their hearts.