### Renowned Journalist Donal MacIntyre Invited to Assist in High-Profile Noah Donohoe Inquest
The inquest into the tragic and mysterious death of Belfast teenager Noah Donohoe is set to receive input from acclaimed investigative journalist Donal MacIntyre. This development was announced during a preliminary hearing at Belfast’s Royal Courts of Justice, with the proceedings expected to finally begin in November after much delay.
Noah Donohoe, a 14-year-old student at St Malachy’s College, disappeared in June 2020 while cycling to meet friends. After six anxious days, his body was discovered in a storm drain in North Belfast. His family, and especially his mother Fiona Donohoe, have since campaigned relentlessly for a thorough investigation, seeking clarity and answers amid the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of his death.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Coroner Mr Justice Rooney confirmed that the inquest, which has been much anticipated by the public and Noah’s family alike, is now expected to start on 3 November. Justice Rooney also acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly around access to electronic evidence, but remained cautiously optimistic that the proceedings are finally on track.
A key point during the court session involved the involvement of Donal MacIntyre, known for his detailed undercover television investigations. According to Peter Coll KC, counsel to the coroner, MacIntyre has conducted his own in-depth investigation into Noah’s disappearance, largely funded by grassroots online support. The journalist has reportedly already submitted relevant materials to the inquiry and is now expected to be formally requested to assist further.
MacIntyre’s reputation for meticulous investigative work has brought renewed hope that new light could be cast onto a case that has generated significant public interest and speculation. Mr Coll told the court that continued dialogue with MacIntyre would focus on how his existing contributions could be further developed, underlining the positive cooperation to date.
Brenda Campbell KC, representing Fiona Donohoe, expressed gratitude on behalf of her client for MacIntyre’s efforts thus far. She emphasised Mrs Donohoe’s commitment to ensuring that all possible avenues are explored during the inquest, encouraging any further assistance from the journalist as the legal process moves forward.
The preliminary hearing also saw updates about critical technical hurdles facing the investigation. Lawyers are still negotiating with Meta, the owners of Instagram, regarding access to Noah’s social media data—a key aspect of the digital evidence. Mr Coll reported that access has yet to be granted, and an order from a US court may ultimately be required to secure cooperation from Meta if voluntary disclosure cannot be achieved. Justice Rooney voiced concern about the risk of such an order being disregarded, though he remained hopeful for a resolution.
It is worth noting that the upcoming inquest will be heard by a jury, marking it as one of the more significant and closely watched proceedings in Northern Ireland in recent years. Delays have plagued the case for some time, but the coroner assured the court that preparations for the November date are progressing.
The next preliminary hearing is scheduled for 9 September, where further updates on evidence and procedural matters are expected. For Noah’s family, the biggest hope is that the inquest will finally provide some of the answers that have proven elusive, and that external perspectives such as MacIntyre’s could bring fresh insight and a renewed sense of public trust to the process.
The case continues to draw considerable attention both locally and nationally, highlighting the ongoing debate over how complex and sensitive investigations are managed in the digital age. With the involvement of seasoned investigators alongside the formal legal system, there is growing anticipation that the upcoming inquest may at last address the many questions that remain for Noah Donohoe’s grieving family and the wider community.