Inquest into death of Robert Holohan adjourned indefinitely

The inquest into the death of 11-year-old Robert Holohan in Midleton was adjourned indefinitely this afternoon.

The State Pathologist Marie Cassidy, who gave evidence this afternoon, said she had no objections to having a full discussion with the dead boy's parents after criminal matters had been dealt with.

Mark and Majella Holohan were representing themselves at the hearing and put a number of questions to Dr Cassidy before the hearing was adjourned.

After the state pathologist stated that the cause of death was due to asphyxia, Mrs. Holohan put it to her that a number of experts had been looking into the scenario that Robert had been caught by the neck, forced to he ground, and strangled to death.

Dr. Cassidy replied “I can't say that didn’t happen.”

Mrs. Holohan then asked her if a semen swab had been taken from her son's closed hand. Dr. Cassidy said forensics had dealt with that area

Earlier, the State Pathologist said that there was no evidence of a violent or forceful sexual assault

Mrs. Holohan put it to the coroner, Dr. Frank O’Connell that he could understand that they wanted to know everything in order to get closure.

Dr Frank O’Connell offered his condolences, before adjourning the inquest indefinitely.