In Act V, scene i of Romeo and Juliet, what role does Balthasar play in the catastrophe?

Balthasar brings Romeo the news that Juliet appears to be dead, saying he saw her laid in the Capulet tomb. Romeo believes him and decides to return to Verona, which leads him toward the tragic ending. Balthasar does not know that Juliet is only in a deathlike sleep.

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