Inquest into Surrey police officer’s death on holiday in Kavos faces further delay
An inquest into a young police officer’s death after a night out in Kavos three years ago faces at least another five-month delay
An inquest into a young police officer’s death after a night out in Kavos three years ago faces at least another five-month delay.
Hannah Byrne had been out on the first night of her holiday in Corfu when she suffered a fatal head injury after falling several metres on September 1 2023.
The 22-year-old, who served as a constable with Surrey Police’s neighbourhood policing team in Reigate, had opted to stay out while her colleague returned to their hotel.
Greek authorities believed her fatal injuries sustained outside a bar were compatible with an “accidental” fall.
However, they were also investigating whether Ms Byrne had unwittingly drunk alcohol laced with methanol.
On Tuesday, West Sussex Brighton and Hove Area Coroner Joseph Turner adjourned Ms Byrne’s inquest in Horsham for another mention hearing on December 8.
It was originally opened on September 18 2023.
“The court awaits information from the relevant authorities,” he said, adding the court is “not in a position to proceed with inquest today”.
At a previous inquest hearing in May last year, coroner’s officer Anna Soczewka had said: “We are still awaiting information and material from the Greek authorities.”
Ms Byrne was found dead on the side of a main road by a passer-by the morning after her fall.
Shortly after her death, her family said: “Our beloved Hannah was beautiful inside and out. She was extremely kind, funny, caring and had a real zest for life.
“She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.”