Home / Crime and Justice / Noah Donohoe: Police Defend Tunnel Search Amid Risks
Noah Donohoe: Police Defend Tunnel Search Amid Risks
20 Apr
Summary
- Social media posts fueled conspiracy theories about Noah's disappearance.
- Police defended search operations citing safety and health legislation.
- Toxic gases were a major concern during the underground tunnel search.
An inquest into the death of Noah Donohoe heard testimony from a retired police officer addressing the challenges faced during the search for the 14-year-old schoolboy. Officer Philip Menary stated that online speculation, including theories about paramilitary or paedophile involvement, led some members of the public to believe police were involved in a cover-up.
Menary, who was part of the police hazardous environment team, explained the complex and dangerous nature of searching the underground culvert and tunnel where Noah's body was discovered. He highlighted that health and safety legislation dictated the search methods, not allowing for a haphazard approach.
The possibility of toxic gases being released from disturbed silt within the tunnel was a critical factor influencing the search strategy, Menary told the inquest. The team also encountered significant silt levels that hindered the progress of specialised equipment.
Divers were eventually deployed, locating Noah's body over 600 metres downstream in the tunnel. Menary reflected on the operation, acknowledging it was a failure not to find Noah during his team's specific operation due to the challenging conditions, but he stood by the safety protocols and execution of the search.
