The inquest into a 44-year-old man who died in a Prince Albert hospital more than two years ago began on Monday.

Billy Ballantyne was taken to the hospital in November of 2012 because he was feeling ill.

After an incident at the hospital the 44-year-old was taken by police to the jail cells, but was soon taken back to the hospital and where he later died.

According to testimony at the inquest, Ballantyne appeared intoxicated while he was at the hospital.

A nurse who initially assessed Ballantyne says there appeared to be no symptoms that would have warranted immediate medical attention, but he still should have seen a doctor.

Evidence was also presented that Ballantyne had an overdose of acetaminophen in his system at the time of his death.

The inquest will continue through the week to allow a coroner’s jury to make recommendations to help prevent similar deaths in the future.