The inquest into the tragic death of North Belfast schoolboy Noah Donohoe is continuing at Belfast Coroner’s Court. Noah was just 14 years old when he was found dead in a storm drain in 2020, and his mother, Fiona Donohoe, has led a high-profile campaign for answers ever since.
Recent hearings have focused on key evidence surrounding the circumstances of Noah’s disappearance. During proceedings earlier this week, witnesses recalled crucial details, including reports of hearing screams and seeing a ‘white flash by the window’ on the night Noah went missing.
Testimony also included evidence provided by a detective constable who was on duty the day after the schoolboy went missing. The officer explained that she had sent a text message to Noah’s mobile phone during the initial search, aiming to reassure him that he was not in any trouble.
The officer later accompanied a colleague to take possession of the mobile phone after it was located by a member of the public in a North Belfast park. The detective constable confirmed that while they were in possession of the device, a call came through from Noah’s mother, Fiona.
The officer stated that she answered the phone immediately, having been speaking with Fiona throughout the day. She explained the circumstances of the location of the phone to Fiona, ensuring she knew straight away that the device had been recovered and was now in police possession.
This inquest continues the search for clarity regarding Noah’s death, a case that remains deeply significant to the North Belfast community.