Man dies on holiday after eating chicken at four-star hotel

A man tragically passed away while vacationing in the Canary Islands after succumbing to food poisoning.

Leslie Green, aged 70, contracted salmonella during his stay at the Occidental Jandia Playa resort in Fuerteventura, where he was celebrating his significant birthday. Unfortunately, in the second week of his family trip, he fell ill on 9 October 2024, experiencing symptoms like diarrhoea that led to severe dehydration.

Upon becoming ill, Mr Green consulted the resort doctor on 12 October and was subsequently transported by ambulance to a local clinic to receive fluids.

Sadly, his health did not improve, and the grandfather-of-one from Little Lever, Bolton, Greater Manchester, was admitted to a Spanish hospital, where he developed sepsis and kidney failure.

He was placed in an induced coma, but his condition continued to worsen, and doctors eventually concluded that nothing more could be done for him.

Mr Green, who had celebrated his 70th birthday in July 2024, passed away just hours after his life-support machine was turned off on 4 November. His wife of 38 years, Julie Green, also fell seriously ill after contracting salmonella on her 60th birthday, resulting in a week-long hospital stay.

Mrs Green mentioned that she and her husband had only eaten at the hotel buffet during their holiday.

She expressed concerns that a carbonara sauce they consumed one day was not hot enough. Additionally, Mrs Green noted that she found her chicken to be undercooked on another occasion.

An inquest has now confirmed that Mr Green died from food poisoning due to consuming partially cooked chicken while on holiday.

Leslie Green died from food poisoning (SWNS)

After the hearing, Julie commented: “It’s almost impossible to articulate the past few months and the struggle to accept Leslie’s death.

“Leslie was such a loving and caring husband and dad. He was my best friend, and life without him will never be the same.

“I still find it hard to believe that we went on holiday, but Leslie didn’t return home.

"Leslie was the cornerstone of our family, the one everyone turned to for guidance and support.

"There's now a void in our family that can never be filled.

“I would do anything to change this situation and have Leslie back in our lives, but I know that’s not possible.

"Listening to the evidence was challenging, but it was something I felt compelled to do to honor Leslie’s memory.

“I hope that by speaking out, I can prevent others from suffering as Leslie did. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.”

Leslie Green was celebrating his milestone 70th birthday (SWNS)

Jennifer Hodgson, an international serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Julie, stated: “Julie and her family remain devastated by Leslie’s death and the circumstances surrounding it.

“Understandably, they’ve had numerous concerns regarding how Leslie contracted his infection.

"Regrettably, the inquest has confirmed their fears, revealing troubling evidence.

“Leslie’s case starkly illustrates the severe impact of salmonella and why it, along with other gastric illnesses, must never be underestimated.

“Although nothing can compensate for the ordeal Julie and her family have endured, it’s crucial that lessons are learned to enhance hygiene standards for future holidaymakers.

“We continue to support Julie during this distressing time.”

Tyla has reached out to The Occidental Jandia Playa for their comments.

Recommended for you