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Inquest Rules Cause of Death Unascertained in Wirral Man Found on Northern Ireland Beach

A coroner recorded an unascertained cause, referring the case to Merseyside authorities for further review.

Overview

  • Coroner Joe McCrisken said Andrew Murphy entered the River Mersey and his remains later reached Millisle Beach in County Down.
  • Advanced decomposition limited forensic findings, leaving no preserved signs of drowning and no evidence confirming third-party involvement.
  • The post-mortem identified about 70% narrowing of a coronary artery, consistent with a possible cardiac event on entering the water.
  • Toxicology from a liver sample detected only trace cannabis, with alcohol use at the time of death undetermined.
  • The inquest heard he likely died soon after his final CCTV sighting, while relatives allege an assault based on facial injuries and his comment about owing money; one missing leg later washed up on the Scottish coast.