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Coroner brings Stardust Inquest jury through testimony of survivors
Summary
During the final stages of the Stardust inquest, Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane guided the jury through survivor testimony, confirming that patrons agreed the fire spread rapidly and engulfed the building suddenly. She highlighted vivid accounts of smoke's impact, noting widespread breathing difficulties, drowsiness, and loss of vision. The coroner reviewed evidence concerning each of the six fire exit doors and accounts from nearby residents who first saw the blaze between 1.15 am and 1.38 am. She reminded jurors that the event was described as an over‑21s disco, yet a 1981 Tribunal of Inquiry found 83 % of attendees were under 21, and most witnesses did not need to prove age upon entry. Patrons' estimates of when they first smelled smoke or saw the fire ranged from 1.30 am to 1.45 am, all agreeing on the rapid spread.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Coroner brings Stardust Inquest jury through testimony of survivors. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- February 14, 1981 Other
- 2024-03-19 Publication
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