Keith Titmuss: Coronial investigation launched into death of Manly forward

Manly officials and players have been interviewed as part of an investigation into the 2020 death of Keith Titmuss as his family search for answers.

Manly is at the centre of an investigation into the death of young forward Keith Titmuss in 2020.

Titmuss died in late-November 2020 after collapsing during a pre-season training session at Sea Eagles’ headquarters on Sydney’s northern beaches and NSW Police on Thursday confirmed that a report was being prepared for the coroner’s office.

Sea Eagles chief executive Tony Mestrov also confirmed an investigation had begun into Titmuss’ death to determine whether an inquest would be held.

It is understood key officials at Manly have already been interviewed and now that their season is over, players are expected to be spoken to by investigators.

Keith Titmuss won a Holden Cup grand final with Manly in 2017. Picture: Facebook

Titmuss passed away after a 90-minute training session at the Sydney Academy of Sport, where Manly were based before they moved to their new facility at their home ground, 4 Pines Park.

He was rushed to hospital in an ambulance — former Sea Eagles coach Matt Ballin accompanied him and communicated with Titmuss’ family during the trip.

After initially being taken to Northern Beaches Hospital, Titmuss was transferred to Royal North Shore Hospital where he lost his fight for life.

His passing devastated his family and the Sea Eagles.

In recognition of his time at the club, Manly players in the SG Ball team, Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup sides ran out with ‘KT 623’ embroidered on their jumpers for the rest of the season.

Titmuss’ shattered family donated his brain to The Australian Brain Bank in the search for answers.

Sea Eagles chief executive Tony Mestrov confirmed an investigation had begun into Titmuss’ death to determine whether an inquest would be held.

The Sea Eagles honoured Keth Titmuss after his death. Picture: Ben Hamilton

Mestrov confirmed that the club was co-operating with the investigation.

“We’re co-operating with the coroner’s office and waiting to see is a date is set for an inquest,” Mestrov said.

NSW Police added: “Officers from Northern Beaches Police Area Command are preparing a report for the information of the coroner regarding the death of a 20-year-old man on Monday November 23 2020.”

The Sea Eagles have endured a difficult off-season amid uncertainty over the future of coach Des Hasler, who is about to enter the final year of his contract and has been agitating for an extension.

Hasler was with the Titmuss family when they were given the grim news that their son had lost his fight for life.