A coroner's inquest into the tragic death of Belfast teenager Noah Donohoe has finally begun, over five years after the 14-year-old was found deceased in a city storm drain.
Proceedings Open at Belfast Coroner's Court
The long-awaited legal process got under way at Belfast Coroner's Court on Monday 19 January 2026. Presided over by Mr Justice Rooney, the proceedings started with the selection of a jury, with opening statements anticipated later in the week.
Noah's mother, Fiona Donohoe, arrived at the court around midday, supported by two family members and her solicitor, Niall Murphy. The family has campaigned relentlessly for answers since the St Malachy's College pupil's disappearance in June 2020.
The Tragic Disappearance and Discovery
Noah Donohoe was 14 years old when he went missing on Sunday, 21 June 2020. He was cycling from his home in south Belfast to meet friends in the north of the city.
His disappearance triggered a major search operation, involving hundreds of volunteers from across Belfast. Tragically, six days after he was reported missing, the schoolboy's body was discovered in a storm drain in the Northwood Road area.
Prior to his disappearance, witnesses reported seeing Noah fall from his bike on the Shore Road. Shortly afterwards, he was seen in the area with no clothes on. Police believe he subsequently entered the drain system where he was later found.
A Family's Search for Truth and Justice
The unexplained circumstances surrounding Noah's death have sustained intense public interest and speculation for years. Fiona Donohoe has been the anchor of a persistent campaign demanding a full explanation for her son's death.
She hopes the coroner's inquest will provide answers to the many outstanding questions that have haunted the family. The case is being closely watched by a community deeply affected by the tragedy.
North Belfast MP John Finucane expressed solidarity with the Donohoe family as the inquest opened. In a statement on X, he said: "The Donohoe family have campaigned bravely and tirelessly in their search for truth around Noah's disappearance and death. They deserve no less. I hope this process delivers the truth & justice they deserve."
The inquest is expected to examine the full sequence of events leading to Noah's death and the subsequent police investigation.
