A jury at the inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe has been shown video footage recorded by a police search and rescue team, capturing the moment his body was discovered in a storm drain in north Belfast. The distressing footage was presented as part of the evidence being heard at the Belfast Laganside Courts, offering a visual account of the immediate aftermath of the discovery.
Noah, a pupil at St Malachy's College, was found dead in June 2020, six days after he went missing. His disappearance sparked extensive searches across Belfast, involving emergency services and a large number of volunteers from the local community. The inquest aims to meticulously examine the circumstances leading to his death and the subsequent discovery, providing clarity to his family and the public.
The court heard testimony from a police officer involved in the search operation, who described the discovery of Noah's body in a drain leading to the River Forth. The officer detailed the challenging conditions within the confined space where Noah was located, emphasising the difficult nature of the search and recovery effort. This testimony, alongside the video evidence, provides crucial insights into the final moments of the search.
The inquest, which began earlier this year, has already heard from various witnesses, including members of the public who saw Noah in the hours before his disappearance, and forensic experts. The proceedings have been a long and arduous process for Noah's family, who have consistently sought answers regarding the precise events that led to their son's tragic death. The presentation of this footage marks a significant, albeit difficult, moment in the ongoing legal process.
The coroner presiding over the inquest has reiterated the court's commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, ensuring all available evidence is presented and scrutinised. The evidence presented, including the police bodycam footage, is intended to provide the jury with a comprehensive understanding of the timeline and conditions relevant to Noah's death, ultimately assisting them in reaching their conclusions.
The case has garnered significant public attention and sympathy across Northern Ireland and beyond, with many following the inquest's developments closely. The search for answers into Noah's death continues to be a poignant issue for the community, highlighting the impact of such tragedies on families and the broader society.
Source: Belfast Laganside Courts