An inquest has been opened into the sudden death of five-year-old Aria Rose George, who passed away at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff on September 27, 2024. The hearing, held at Swansea's Guildhall, will investigate whether earlier medical intervention could have altered the outcome for Aria, whose family was unaware of her serious health condition until she became critically ill.

Aria, who had no known medical issues, began to show signs of illness during the week of September 23, 2024. Her parents first took her to their GP, and later to Neath Port Talbot Hospital, where she received treatment and medication. However, her condition did not improve, prompting her parents to return her to the hospital.

At Neath Port Talbot Hospital, it was decided that Aria should be transferred to the University Hospital of Wales for a CT scan. The scan revealed that she was suffering from a global intracerebral bleed with hydrocephalus. Further tests indicated the presence of pulmonary emboli, and discussions with haematology suggested that her symptoms were consistent with acute myeloid leukaemia.

Following consultations with senior medical teams, including haematologists, neurosurgeons, and critical care specialists, Aria was placed in "supportive comfort care". She was kept comfortable overnight, and the next day, she was palliated with her parents by her side. Tragically, Aria's condition continued to deteriorate, and she was pronounced dead at 1.38pm on September 27, 2024, by consultant Dr Richard Skone.

The proposed cause of death has been identified as intracerebral haemorrhage (non-traumatic) and acute myeloid leukaemia. Senior coroner Aled Gruffydd stated that an investigation is necessary to determine if earlier treatment could have been provided. He emphasised that it is in the public interest to uncover the facts surrounding Aria's death. The inquest has been adjourned until April 29, 2026, with Mr Gruffydd extending his "deepest condolences" to Aria's family.