A 25-year-old man tragically fell to his death from Birmingham's iconic Cube building during what has been described as a 'psychotic episode', an inquest has heard.
Benjamin Pesian from Walsall died on June 7 after falling from the city centre landmark, with a full investigation into his death now scheduled for February 2026.
Family Seeks Answers Over Care
During a pre-inquest hearing at Jack Judge House in Oldbury on Thursday, November 13, the court heard that Benjamin had been receiving support from the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. However, this support had been downgraded to voluntary treatment before his death.
Manon Rowlands, the barrister representing Benjamin's family, told the hearing that his loved ones are seeking answers about the care he received and the prescription of his medication. Benjamin had bipolar disorder and his behaviour had "escalated in the months before his death".
"He was plainly suffering a medical episode at the time of his suicide," Ms Rowlands stated, adding that he died "amid a psychotic episode".
Questions Over Systemic Failures
The barrister raised crucial questions about whether "the state did all it could do to protect Benjamin" and if his discharge represented a "systemic failure of care".
Senior Black Country Coroner Zafar Siddique confirmed that the full inquest would examine Benjamin's medical history leading up to the tragedy and his medical cause of death. The investigation will also consider whether there was a "credible breach of substantive duty" and if Benjamin's vulnerability presented a real risk to life.
Evidence about appropriate steps and preventative operation measures will be heard during the three-day inquest, which has been scheduled for February 4-6, 2026.
Witnesses and Evidence
The hearing revealed that several witnesses are expected to provide evidence, including:
- Healthcare professionals from the trust including doctors, nursing staff, and a discharge coordinator
- The Cube manager, who may provide an overview of the premises and access arrangements
- Benjamin's GP and a pathologist
- Benjamin's parents, who will provide a pen portrait tribute
Chris Hopkins, representing The Cube Hotel Birmingham, confirmed that CCTV footage from inside the building looking out exists. The family has also requested that Benjamin's earlier time in police custody be considered as part of the inquest.
Coroner Siddique addressed Benjamin's family in court, stating: "I offer my condolences for your loss. It is a tragic set of circumstances." He will review all disclosure from interested parties in January before deciding on final evidence admission and witness arrangements.
