Ōmarama Teen Eliza-Jayne Coetzee Passes Away After Horse Riding Accident

Omarama, New Zealand – A 13-year-old girl with a deep passion for horses lost her life in a heartbreaking accident last October. Eliza-Jayne Coetzee, a vibrant and talented teenager, succumbed to injuries sustained after falling from her horse, Boxer, whom she considered one of her beloved steeds.

A Life Cut Short

Eliza-Jayne Coetzee, known as EJ, was an avid horse rider and had spent countless hours in the saddle, cultivating a deep bond with her equine companions. However, her life was tragically cut short when her project horse, Boxer, bolted while she was attempting to mount him.

Unforeseen Circumstances

Coroner Heather McKenzie’s findings revealed that Eliza-Jayne had been forbidden from riding Boxer until he was fully trained. However, she had been permitted to groom him, saddle him, and lunge him, a procedure that involves leading the horse in a large circle while holding a long lead rein.

On the fateful day of October 4, 2019, Eliza-Jayne was engaged in groundwork with Boxer, preparing him for future rides. Despite a family friend’s warning not to mount the horse, Eliza-Jayne disregarded the caution and climbed onto Boxer’s back.

Tragically, Boxer bolted across the paddock, heading towards a fence. Eliza-Jayne was thrown from the horse, striking the side of the fence before landing on the ground. The impact proved fatal, and despite valiant efforts by emergency responders, Eliza-Jayne succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

CPR Complications

In an attempt to revive Eliza-Jayne, CPR was administered for nearly an hour. However, due to the remote location of the accident and windy conditions, miscommunication led to the incorrect performance of open finger thoracostomies, a procedure intended to decompress Eliza-Jayne’s chest.

While the nurse who performed the procedure was unfamiliar with the technique and acted in good faith, the incorrect execution resulted in additional injuries to Eliza-Jayne. Nevertheless, Dr. Tony Smith, St John medical director, acknowledged that the mortality rate for a person in cardiac arrest following blunt force trauma is extremely high.

Lessons Learned

Coroner McKenzie emphasized the importance of clear communication and proper training for medical personnel responding to emergencies in out-of-hospital settings. The tragic incident highlights the need for thorough training and effective communication to ensure that lifesaving procedures are performed correctly in critical situations.

A Community in Mourning

Eliza-Jayne’s untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the wider community. She was remembered as a bright, kind, and talented young woman with a promising future. Her passion for horses and her love for life will continue to inspire those who knew her.