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'For 25 years we waited': sister of Stardust victim describes family's 'crushing grief'

Summary

Caroline Tiernan, sister of Michael Ffrench, a Stardust victim, spoke at the inquest, describing the "crushing grief" of waiting 25 years for her brother's formal identification. Michael, one of five victims whose bodies were too badly burned to identify, was finally identified in 2007 through DNA testing. He was the eldest of seven children, a gentle giant, electrician, and music lover, who was loved and respected in his community. Caroline recalled his caring nature, his support for his mother, and his role as a protector and role model. She described the emotional turmoil of the night of the fire, the repeated visits to the morgue, and her mother's breakdown. The family endured a long wait, and the second time they saw Michael's coffin, the grief was again overwhelming, leaving a void that will never be filled.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'For 25 years we waited': sister of Stardust victim describes family's 'crushing grief'. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• February 14, 1981 Other
• 2023-04-28 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report