Open Verdict in speedboat tragedy
31/12/1999
Thank you very much for all your hard work, especially as the outcome is better than expected. Can't thank you enough.
Shana, Wiltshire
The South London Coroner Dr Roy Palmer recorded an 'Open Verdict' this afternoon at the Inquest into the death of Paul Gallagher (Junior).
The family's solicitor Warren Collins of Alexander Harris spoke outside the Court: "The Coroner is concerned that there are many unanswered questions in this tragic case and has returned an 'Open Verdict'. He felt that there was not enough evidence to support a finding of 'Unlawful Killing' or 'Accidental Death'."
"This verdict is very significant for the family after an Inquest in the Bahamas in June 2003 recorded a verdict of 'Accidental Death'. The Gallagher's consider that what happened to their son was no accident; it should never have been allowed to happen. They regard the Coroner's findings today as a victory and they feel completely vindicated."
"They now have much to consider in deciding what their next steps will be. What they are certain about is that they will continue to do everything they can to ensure that other families visiting the beach are safe."
Background
The Inquest into the death of Paul Gallagher (Junior) took place this week on the 26th of October 2004 at the Magistrates Court in Bromley, Kent. The Coroner Dr Roy Palmer spent time prior to the Inquest reviewing evidence surrounding the incident.
The Gallagher family from Orpington, Kent were on holiday of a lifetime staying at the Atlantis resort when the horrific accident happened in 2002.
On the beach outside the hotel with his family, 2year old little Paul was asleep on a sunlounger when a speedboat crashed into the beach, ploughed through holidaymakers and the propeller of the boat struck the toddler causing fatal head injuries. He died in hospital a few days later.
Little Paul was a millennium baby the first to be born in the London Borough of Bromley and his birth was celebrated across the front page of the local press.
Notes to Editors:
-An Inquest held in the Bahamas in March and June 2003 returned a verdict of accidental death.
-Warren Collins is the Partner and Head of Personal Injury at Alexander Harris Solicitors, 222-225 The Strand, London.
-Media enquiries should be made to the media management department of Alexander Harris at 08700 778877.
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