Pier Road tragedy inquests to open next week

Thursday 22 December 2022

Families of the islanders lost in the Pier Road tragedy will now be able to start making funeral plans after all nine who were named as missing were formally identified.

Police confirmed this afternoon that post-mortem examinations for all fatalities have now been completed.

An inquest is now due to be opened next week.

Officers said in a statement this afternoon: "The nine Islanders that were named as missing residents have now been formally identified and officers across the SoJP and Government are assisting with the next steps so that families can begin to make funeral arrangements.

"Our thoughts continue to be with the families and friends affected by this tragedy. They continue to receive support from specially trained officers.

"It is anticipated that the Deputy Viscount will open the inquests next Friday, 30th December, and adjourn them whilst the police investigation continues.

"Detectives will continue their enquiries throughout the Festive period and a cordon of the site will remain in place into the New Year, with specialist scientific work expected to last several weeks."

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