Jury Reviews CCTV of Noah Donohoe’s Final Moments in Inquest

The inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe has revealed significant details regarding his final moments, including the presentation of CCTV footage capturing him riding his bicycle shortly before his disappearance in June 2020. The footage, shown to the jury, documents Noah cycling in the vicinity of Belfast, wearing only a cycling helmet and backpack, before he was reported missing. His body was discovered in a storm drain six days later.

On the afternoon of the inquest, the jury viewed nine minutes of non-continuous footage from the evening of Noah’s disappearance. Initially, he is seen leaving his home on Fitzroy Avenue, cycling through the city center, and ultimately heading north. The last recorded sighting shows Noah riding his bicycle completely naked.

A key witness, motorist Donna Blain, testified about the evening she saw Noah after he had fallen from his bike. She described how she observed him lifting his bicycle off the ground and looking around, seemingly embarrassed. Blain reported that Noah had left his coat behind but did not appear to be injured. Her statement was first given to police shortly after Noah went missing and was reiterated ten months later during the inquest.

Classmate’s Insights on Noah’s State of Mind

The inquest also heard from Charlie Rocks, who described himself as Noah’s “closest friend” at St Malachy’s College. Rocks portrayed Noah as a friendly and humorous individual, stating he never seemed depressed or withdrawn. “He was the nicest, friendliest, funniest person,” Rocks explained. He further noted that Noah had only mentioned feeling “blue” on one occasion.

Under questioning from Peter Coll KC, counsel to the coroner, Rocks expressed that he had no immediate concerns for Noah’s mental health prior to his disappearance. “Noah is very eccentric as a person,” he said, acknowledging some unusual conversations but emphasizing that he never perceived a need for concern.

The inquest examined social media interactions between Noah, Rocks, and another friend, Jay Tierney. Rocks shared that Noah had become more open about his feelings during the COVID-19 lockdown, indicating a positive shift in his self-awareness. He mentioned that Noah had asked him about reading the self-help book 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson, though he declined the invitation.

During cross-examination by barrister Donal Lunny, Rocks revealed he was unaware that Noah occasionally spent nights alone in his Belfast apartment. When asked about Noah’s sexual orientation, Rocks affirmed that Noah was straight based on his understanding, referencing discussions they had regarding romantic interests.

The inquest continues to explore the circumstances surrounding Noah’s disappearance and tragic death, aiming to provide clarity for his family and the wider community. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the events leading to that fateful evening in June 2020.