A prominent corporate finance director has tragically died just nine days after tripping and striking his head during a business call, with a coroner now issuing a crucial public health warning about the risks of head injuries when taking certain medications.
A Fateful Fall and Unforeseen Complications
Cambridge-educated Clive Hyman, aged 64, informed a colleague that he had hit his head on marble steps while on a work trip to Bucharest, Romania, on August 1, 2025. Despite the impact, he reported feeling "fine" and did not seek immediate medical attention.
Mr Hyman, who made history as the youngest ever partner at KPMG and later founded his own successful consultancy, Hyman Capital, was described as active and in good general health, regularly attending the gym and playing cricket.
The Critical Medication Factor
Unbeknownst to Mr Hyman and his wife, Rachel, he had been prescribed apixaban, an anticoagulant medication, following previous heart issues. Neither was aware that this medication significantly increased the risks associated with head trauma.
After returning home to London, Mr Hyman continued to feel normal until August 5, when he developed a sudden, severe headache and extremely high blood pressure. Despite an initial ambulance call being classified as "non-emergency," his condition rapidly deteriorated.
Rapid Deterioration and Medical Intervention
After taking paracetamol and going to bed, Mr Hyman was found by his wife choking and unresponsive. Paramedics transported him to the local emergency department, where a CT scan revealed a left-sided subdural haemorrhage.
He was transferred to a regional trauma centre for a craniectomy, but the surgery proved unsuccessful. Further imaging showed he had suffered an extensive stroke to the left hemisphere of his brain, with neurosurgeons advising that prospects for meaningful recovery were poor.
Mr Hyman died in the early hours of August 10, 2025, with the coroner concluding his death was accidental.
A Life of Achievement and Service
Mr Hyman's career was marked by exceptional achievement. After attending the prestigious Haberdashers' Boys School and studying Natural Sciences at Cambridge University, he joined KPMG, becoming their youngest ever partner at age 34.
During his 20-year tenure at the global accounting firm, he generated millions in revenue and helped grow the USA private equity transactions services business from $3 million to $110 million over three years.
Beyond his professional success, Mr Hyman served as chair of the East of England Young Enterprise scheme, played cricket for the Old Haberdashers Cricket Club, and was an active member of his local synagogue.
Coroner's Warning and Regulatory Action
Assistant Coroner Sarah Bourke confirmed the cause of death as traumatic subdural haemorrhage, atrial fibrillation, and a coronary artery bypass graft. She emphasised that people should always seek medical help after head injuries.
In her prevention of future deaths report, Ms Bourke noted that patient information leaflets for apixaban advise patients about bleeding risks but do not specifically address steps to take after head trauma.
The coroner has sent her report to the Chair of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, the Chief Executive of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, and the Chief Executive of Medicines UK, who have 56 days to respond.
A Family's Heartbreak and Determination
Mr Hyman's widow, Rachel, 52, expressed her devastation while emphasising her determination to raise awareness. "If I had known what could have happened, I would have taken him to the hospital straight away," she said.
"Clive was a remarkable person who should be alive as he was truly happy for the first time in his life. I am heartbroken without him, but I am also very determined that no other family has to go through this."
His brother Harry paid tribute online, writing: "We should all remember the fragility of life and remember to save the day—carpe diem. Rest in Peace my brother Clive."
The coroner's warning highlights the critical importance of seeking immediate medical advice following head injuries, particularly for those taking medications that may increase bleeding risks.
