A SCHOOLGIRL who vanished in the River Thames at a birthday party died “swiftly” from cold water shock, an inquest heard.
Kaliyah Coa, 11, was reported missing on March 31 after playing near Barge House Causeway in Woolwich, South East London.
UKNIPKaliyah vanished on March 31 in Woolwich[/caption]
A huge search was launched but tragically, the youngster’s body was discovered two weeks later.
East London Coroner’s Court heard how Kaliyah’s death was “unnatural” – prompting an inquest.
A provisional cause of death was immersion, pending further tests.
The post-mortem suggested that Kaliyah had not died from drowning, the inquest heard.
Senior coroner Graeme Irvine said: “The effect of being in cold water would have caused unconsciousness and death relatively swiftly.
“I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the parents. I cannot imagine the grief they must be going through.”
A full inquest will be held at a later date.
Kaliyah was playing with another young girl and boy on a school inset day when she slipped into the Thames.
Her family yesterday paid tribute after police confirmed a body pulled from Maritime Quay belonged to the schoolgirl.
They said “their hearts are broken” and their lives will “never be the same”.
The family added: “We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time. She will be missed so much.
“Kaliyah went to a birthday party and never returned home to her family.”
PAAn inquest was opened into the schoolgirl’s death[/caption]
UKNIPShe was at a birthday party when the tragedy unfolded[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
