Jury Selection Underway for Noah Donohoe Inquest

The long-awaited inquest into the death of Noah Donohoe, the 14-year-old Belfast schoolboy who tragically died in 2020, is approaching a crucial stage. A jury is scheduled to be selected this Thursday morning at Belfast Coroner’s Court, marking a significant step towards the formal opening of proceedings.

The selection process, overseen by presiding coroner Mr Justice Rooney, began on Monday morning. After several days of deliberation, a large pool of potential jurors has been narrowed down, with a panel of 23 agreed upon by Wednesday evening. A ballot will take place on Thursday to finalize the 11 people who will serve on the jury, along with four reserves. Opening statements are expected to follow swiftly once the jury is officially sworn in.

Key evidence anticipated during the inquest includes a statement from Noah’s mother, Fiona Donohoe, along with the initial call made to emergency services and testimony from various experts. Ms Donohoe has been a tireless presence at the Coroner’s Court throughout the selection process, supported by family members and her solicitor, Niall Murphy. She has led a high-profile campaign for answers since her son’s disappearance.

Noah, a St Malachy’s College student, went missing in June 2020 while cycling to meet friends. Six days later, he was tragically found deceased in a storm drain in the Northern Ireland capital. Before his disappearance, he was seen falling off his bike on the Shore Road. His case prompted an enormous search operation, with hundreds of people from across Belfast coming together to help find him. The unexplained nature of his death has attracted immense public interest.

Ms Donohoe’s legal counsel emphasized last year that she hopes the coroner’s case will provide the answers she has pressed for, seeking a 'full and fearless' investigation into her son’s death.