During the latest proceedings at Belfast Coroner’s Court, an expert witness suggested that 14-year-old Noah Donohoe may have still been alive when he entered the storm drain where his body was later discovered — a claim that’s now being closely examined by the jury.

But beyond that, one unusual detail continues to draw attention and is causing many to look at the case differently: Noah was found naked, with some of his clothing and belongings scattered along the route — something described as extremely out-of-character for the private, well-liked teenager. 

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Noah, a pupil at St Malachy’s College in Belfast, went missing on 21 June 2020 (Father’s Day) after cycling away from home. Six days later, on 27 June 2020, his body was recovered approximately 600 metres inside a storm drain (culvert) near Northwood Road in north Belfast. The post-mortem examination concluded the cause of death was drowning, with no evidence of third-party involvement.

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In evidence read to the inquest recently (around 13 April 2026), Professor Carolyn Roberts, a water and environment expert, stated it is likely that Noah climbed into the culvert entrance alive, slipping between the vertical metal bars of the grille. She described him possibly crawling or walking stooped along the tunnel for some distance before drowning, potentially becoming disoriented in the dark, complex, silt-filled environment with changing water levels.

Other experts have supported the view that it is “very likely” he drowned on the day he disappeared. The inquest has heard about bruises and abrasions consistent with movement inside the hazardous drain, including a forehead bruise more likely caused by striking a surface within the culvert.

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PSNI launch corporate manslaughter probe into Noah Donohoe drain

The naked state of Noah’s body when recovered — along with reports of a naked cyclist seen in the area — remains one of the most puzzling and heartbreaking aspects. His clothing and items were found discarded nearby, adding to the confusion surrounding his final moments.

Noah’s family has expressed profound grief and continues to seek full answers throughout the inquest, which is hearing evidence with a jury. Proceedings have also examined the police investigation, the culvert’s safety (including the absence of a security screen at the entrance), and the extraordinary circumstances of the case.

The coroner’s court continues to explore all available evidence as it works to establish the full facts. Experts have described the inside of the culvert as a dark, disorientating space that could overwhelm even a capable young person.

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Noah Donohoe’s family ‘wants answers to unanswered questions’

This latest testimony has been described as deeply upsetting by many, painting a picture of a frightened or disoriented boy navigating a dangerous underground system alone. The inquest is ongoing, and the family’s call for complete clarity is shared by the wider community.

Our thoughts remain with Noah’s mother Fiona, his family, friends, and everyone who loved him during this incredibly painful time. The search for answers continues at the Belfast Coroner’s Court.

Full details and ongoing coverage are available through reputable news outlets reporting directly from the inquest.