‘Lack of curiosity’ about family’s religious beliefs was ‘missed opportunity’ to save eight-year-old, inquest hears
An inquest into the death of eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs, who died after her parents withheld insulin, is examining missed opportunities by government agencies. The coroner is considering new recommendations to better identify risks posed by religious sects.
Why it matters
The case underscores the tension between religious freedom and child protection, prompting a review of interagency communication.
Elizabeth Struhs died from diabetic ketoacidosis in 2022 after her parents withdrew her insulin. They were members of a Toowoomba religious sect known as the Saints. Photograph: BBC Elizabeth Struhs died from diabetic ketoacidosis in 2022 after her parents withdrew her insulin. They were members of a Toowoomba religious sect known as the Saints. Photograph: BBC Queensland ‘Lack of curiosity’ about family’s religious beliefs was ‘missed opportunity’ to save eight-year-old, inquest hears Coroner says she’s considering adopting recommendations from Victoria’s cults inquiry as investigation into Elizabeth Struh’s death continues
Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast
Prefer the Guardian on Google The coroner investigating the death of Elizabeth Struhs is considering adopting recommendations from Victoria’s cults inquiry, warning a “lack of curiosity” about her family’s religious beliefs was a “missed opportunity”.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in