Jury in Noah Donohoe inquest resumes deliberations

Deliberations are continuing for a third day as a jury considers the circumstances surrounding the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe. The teenager's body was discovered in an underground water tunnel in north Belfast in June 2020, six days after he disappeared.

The inquest, which began in January at Belfast Coroner's Court, has heard extensive evidence. This includes testimony from 76 witnesses, statements from an additional 42 individuals, and the presentation of maps, video footage, photographs, police logs, and expert reports. A post-mortem examination concluded that Noah's death was caused by drowning.

Noah's mother, Fiona, has attended every day of the proceedings. Addressing the jury of eight men and two women, Coroner Mr Justice Kevin Rooney emphasized the importance of basing their findings solely on the evidence presented in court. He reminded the jurors that their decision must be unanimous and assured them that there is no time pressure on their deliberations, with all parties willing to wait for their conclusion.