A 44-year-old woman, owner of a food business, was found dead at the foot of a housing block on July 19, 2025, after experiencing significant stress over a workplace injury claim she believed was fraudulent.
The woman had been discharged from the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) against medical advice the day prior, following a suicide attempt. A coroner’s inquiry into her death opened on Thursday, October 8, 2025. Her identity is being protected by a gag order.
Workplace Injury Claim Causes Stress
The deceased had been under immense stress due to a workplace injury compensation claim filed against her by a foreign worker. The worker had reportedly sustained injuries while employed at the woman’s company and began sending medical bills. A letter indicated the worker intended to make a claim for total permanent incapacity.
The woman expressed concerns that she was being exploited for additional compensation and worried about her insurance coverage for such a claim. Her husband had advised her not to worry, mentioning that the insurer was already covering some of the worker’s hospital bills. However, the woman remained anxious about not having the correct insurance plan.
Suicide Attempt and Mental Health Treatment
In the early hours of July 18, 2025, the woman was found intoxicated and unconscious at Changi Beach. Paramedics noted she was incoherent and drenched, stating she wanted to die and had been scammed. She was assessed at Changi General Hospital for a “serious suicide attempt” and diagnosed with depression. Subsequently, she was transferred to IMH with a clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder.
Despite the medical assessment, the woman was discharged against medical advice on the same day, as both she and her husband were “keen on the discharge.” Medical professionals had warned of the risks of worsening symptoms and potential suicide if discharged, but the couple agreed to her release under her husband’s care. Her husband stated that she appeared quiet but normal after her discharge.
Ongoing Investigations
An officer from the Ministry of Manpower had communicated with the woman three days before her death regarding new medical bills. The officer advised her to direct such inquiries to the insurer, who was then assessing the case. The MOM officer described the woman as “calm and composed” during this interaction.
The police and MOM had investigated the workplace injury claim but stated these investigations did not impact the findings in the woman’s death. The full findings are expected at a later date. State Counsel Dhiraj G Chainani declined to comment when asked about conclusions regarding the allegedly fraudulent claim.
If you or someone you know needs help, the National mental health helpline is 1771. The Samaritans of Singapore Hotline is 1767, and the Singapore Association for Mental Health Helpline is 1800 283 7019. For immediate risk, call 24-hour emergency medical services.
Frequently asked questions
What led to the woman's death?
A coroner’s court heard she was stressed over a workplace injury claim she believed was fraudulent and had a history of mental health struggles, including a recent suicide attempt.
What was the nature of the workplace injury claim?
The claim was made by a foreign worker who alleged injury while working for the woman’s company, seeking total permanent incapacity compensation.
Was the woman receiving mental health treatment?
Yes, she had been treated for depression at the Institute of Mental Health following a suicide attempt but was discharged against medical advice.
Are the workplace injury claim investigations linked to the death inquiry?
Police and MOM investigated the injury claim, but these investigations did not affect the findings in the woman’s death, according to the court.
Where can someone get help if they are struggling with mental health?
Resources include the National mental health helpline (1771), Samaritans of Singapore (1767), and the Singapore Association for Mental Health (1800 283 7019).
