Alcohol killed Vernon man

Photo: Castanet Staff - Amy Jackson-Shelling

Terrance Edward Fergus died of acute alcohol poisoning.

That's the findings from a coroner's report released Tuesday afternoon.

Fergus, 47, was discovered by a passerby, lying deceased in front of a park bench in Polson Park in Vernon shortly before 10 p.m. on Sept 26, 2012.

The coroner's report also stated chronic alcoholism and cardiovascular disease contributed to his death.

A toxicology exam showed an elevated blood alcohol level of 0.53%.

Investigation into Fergus' death reveal he had been arrested for public intoxication about 8 a.m. the same day.

He was placed in cells and released shortly before 4:30 p.m.

An hour later Fergus purchased a bottle of vodka and mix at a liquor store and was discovered by a bylaw enforcement officer at 6:30 p.m. lying on a picnic table in Polson Park.

Investigation went on to state Fergus had a bottle of vodka with him at the time and complained of not feeling well. He did not ask for medical assistance and did not appear to be acutely ill.

He was found deceased three hours later.