Most Likely Noah Donohoe Entered Water Tunnel Through Bars of Culvert Entrance

Experts investigating the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe have concluded that he most likely entered the storm drain tunnel through the bars of a culvert entrance, according to evidence presented at the ongoing inquest.

The schoolboy was reported missing on June 21, 2020, after leaving his home in south Belfast on his bicycle to meet friends in the Cavehill area. His body was discovered six days later, on June 27, 2020, in a storm drain tunnel, naked and without his clothing.

During the inquest, Daryl Paul, who pleaded guilty in 2021 to stealing Noah’s backpack containing his laptop, testified that he never had possession of the teenager’s green coat. Paul stated he was concerned the backpack might have been taken during a burglary and admitted to stealing items to raise money but denied taking any personal belongings beyond the electronics.

Witnesses provided examples of past fatalities linked to security screens in similar environments, including incidents in 2000, 2008, and 2017 where individuals became trapped or injured by submerged grates during flooding. One expert noted that the risk assessment for such hazards should have been considered in the area where Noah was last seen.

The inquest continues to examine the circumstances surrounding Noah’s movements after he was last seen on CCTV, with officials assessing whether the design and maintenance of drainage infrastructure contributed to the tragedy.