The inquest into Katie Simpson’s death is set to explore key details, with her family seeking the return of her mobile phone from police.
Derry: During a recent pre-inquest review, the court learned that Katie Simpson’s family wants her mobile phone back from the police.
Katie, just 21, passed away in Altnagelvin Hospital after an incident in Gortnessy Meadows back in August 2020.
The hearing took place at Laganside Courthouse in Belfast.
Initially, police believed it was a suicide, but things changed when her sister’s partner was arrested for murder the following year.
That trial ended last April after the partner, Jonathan Creswell, died unexpectedly.
Now, coroner Joe McCrisken will look into the details surrounding Katie’s death.
Some family members attended the pre-inquest review remotely, which was held on Tuesday.
The coroner’s counsel mentioned that several parties, including the police and Creswell’s family, have applied for interested person status in the case.
Mr. McCrisken granted that status to the police and Creswell’s next-of-kin but wants more info before deciding on the others.
There was also talk about a BBC documentary on the case, and the court is waiting to see if they have any relevant material.
The BBC has been in touch, and they’re willing to discuss things further once the proceedings are clearer.
The coroner noted that the family wants Katie’s phone back, as it holds personal and sentimental value.
However, the police are unsure if they can return it yet, as it might need further examination.
Mr. McCrisken asked the police to respond within two weeks about the phone’s status.
He reminded everyone that the inquest is now active and warned against publishing anything that could interfere with it.
Another pre-inquest review is scheduled for April 1.
