The inquest into the tragic death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe continues to unfold, bringing forth heartbreaking and sometimes perplexing details surrounding his disappearance in June 2020. Noah was found in a storm drain six days after he left home on his bike, headed to meet friends.
Recent proceedings have revealed pivotal CCTV footage of Noah’s final known movements. The jury witnessed clips of him cycling through Belfast, initially with his helmet and backpack. Shockingly, the last recorded footage shows Noah riding his bike naked.
A motorist, Donna Blain, also testified, recalling seeing Noah fall from his bike that same evening. She noted he seemed embarrassed before riding off, leaving his coat behind. She saw no apparent injuries.
Adding to the complexity, Noah’s closest friend, Charlie Rocks, painted a vivid portrait of the schoolboy. He described Noah as “the nicest, friendliest, funniest, smartest person,” always full of questions and friendly with everyone. Charlie acknowledged Noah’s eccentricities and a “transitional period” he was experiencing, even discussing a self-help book like “12 Rules for Life.” However, Charlie firmly stated he had no concerns about Noah’s mental health at the time, or even in hindsight, describing him as upbeat and looking forward to lockdown ending. He never mentioned storm drains or tunnels.
As the inquest continues, the central question of what led to Noah’s tragic end remains. His family and the public are still searching for answers behind this deeply puzzling case.
