Drayton Manor schoolgirl died after drowning, pathologist concludes
A schoolgirl who fell from a Staffordshire theme park's water ride died as a result of drowning, a forensic pathologist has concluded.
Evha Jannath, 11, died after falling from Drayton Manor's Splash Canyon water ride in May 2017, and now Staffordshire Police have decided to hand the investigation over to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as the circumstances surrounding Evha’s death do not meet the threshold for gross negligence or corporate manslaughter.
Detectives carried out an investigation after Evha's death and submitted a file to the CPS for advice which has now been passed to the HSE which will consider if any other offences are applicable.
A forensic pathologist concluded Evha, from Leicester, died as a result of drowning. It has previously been said that the Jameah Girls Academy pupil died after suffering chest injuries at the Tamworth theme park.
An inquest into Evha's death was opened last month and adjourned until November.
A file has been prepared for the coroner and an inquest will take place later this year.
Detective Inspector John Quilty from Staffordshire Police said: “The investigation into the tragic death of Evha has been extremely complex and we have worked closely throughout with the park, HSE and CPS.
“Evha’s family have been made aware of the findings and our thoughts remain with her family and friends.”
A HSE spokesperson said: “HSE has supported Staffordshire Police since this incident took place and has supported the inquiry throughout.
“This remains a criminal investigation and we will be considering whether there were any breaches of health and safety law relevant to the circumstances of this tragic event.
“HSE’s thoughts remain with Evha’s family, who we will keep updated as our investigation continues.”
Leicester East MP Keith Vaz said the delay into Evha's inquest has been "intolerable".
He said: “The family have noted the decision of Staffordshire Police following the advice of the Crown Prosecution Service.
"The family are grateful to the Police for their thorough investigation of this matter. They welcome the decision of the Health and Safety Executive to take over the case. They hope it can be done speedily.
"The delay in this matter has been intolerable. It is now almost one year and 10 months since this tragedy occurred.
"We welcome the fact that the coroner has announced that the inquest will take place later this year.”
