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The formal inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe, who was found in a North Belfast storm drain in 2020, has officially begun at Laganside Courthouse. A jury of eleven has been sworn in to determine the circumstances of the tragedy. This marks a significant step forward for his mother, Fiona Donohoe, who has long campaigned for a thorough inquiry.
2026/01/22
The long-awaited inquest into the death of Noah Donohoe has formally begun in Belfast, bringing a new phase to the case that has deeply affected the North Belfast community since 2020.
At Laganside Courthouse, presiding coroner Mr Justice Rooney addressed the court, noting that the commencement of proceedings would be a “distressing day” for Noah’s mother, Fiona Donohoe, who was present in the courtroom. Mr Justice Rooney acknowledged her persistence, stating she has been waiting “quite some time” for the inquest to proceed.
The process began with the selection of a jury, comprising nine men and two women. The jury was immediately given clear instructions by the coroner to remain absolutely neutral throughout the proceedings. Mr Justice Rooney stressed that while they may have heard previous details of the case, it is “absolutely imperative” they do not enter the inquest with any predetermined view of what happened. Formal opening statements are expected to follow shortly.
Noah, a 14-year-old schoolboy, went missing in June 2020 while cycling from his South Belfast home to meet friends. He was found six days later in a storm drain in North Belfast, near Northwood Drive. The aim of this jury inquest is specifically to establish when, where, and how Noah died; it is not intended to attribute blame to any individual.
The proceedings follow multiple delays, including a recent request from Fiona Donohoe to ensure a “full and fearless” inquest into her son’s death. Pre-inquest hearings last year covered various investigative details, including an assessment of the light level within the drain where Noah was found, with investigative journalist Donal MacIntyre also providing material to the coroner.
The case has seen some controversy due to the PSNI being granted the use of Public Interest Immunity Certificates (PIIC). This decision means that certain details regarding Noah's death will be concealed from the public and redacted from evidence presented, on the basis that disclosing the material would pose “a real risk of serious harm to the public interest.”
In preparation for the formal hearing, the coroner has issued a warning to the public about the severe consequences for anyone found speculating about the case on social media, as this could prejudice the inquest proceedings.