Man, 25, Dies From Accidental Caffeine Overdose
An inquest ruled the death of Alfie Goddard accidental after he consumed an excessive amount of caffeine tablets purchased online.
A 25-year-old man died from an accidental overdose of caffeine tablets he had purchased online, an inquest has determined. Alfie Goddard was found in a delirious state, vomiting blood, and was rushed to the hospital where he later died of cardiac arrest on October 28, 2025.
An Essex Coroner's Court inquest, led by coroner Lincoln Brookes, ruled Goddard's death accidental. A toxicology report revealed a caffeine concentration in his system that was within the fatal range.
Goddard, who had ADHD, drug-induced psychosis, paranoid schizophrenia, and autism, lived in a supported accommodation in Colchester, Essex. On the day of his death, he experienced a psychotic episode and attempted to call emergency services, but staff at his residence ultimately made the call.
Following his death, police searched Goddard's room and discovered a large quantity of caffeine tablets. Authorities believe he ingested these capsules, leading to his erratic behavior.
Representatives from the Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust stated that they were unaware of the specific amounts and types of caffeine Goddard was purchasing. His sister, Daisy, described him as having an 'addictive personality' and noted his unawareness of the dangers of excessive caffeine consumption. She explained that his vulnerabilities made him susceptible to easily acquiring products online, and he would often purchase supplements in bulk.
Concluding the inquest, Coroner Brookes stated that Goddard inadvertently died from caffeine toxicity. He had a history of diagnoses including paranoid schizophrenia, autistic spectrum disorder, and ADHD, compounded by polysubstance misuse.
His sister emphasized that Goddard was a kind and sensitive individual who often struggled with complex mental health challenges. She highlighted that his autism and ADHD made him vulnerable to substance misuse, including caffeine and other health supplements. Daisy Goddard also pointed out the dangers associated with readily available, potent, and unlabelled caffeine products sold online, noting that their legal status often leads people to underestimate their risks.