Coroner flags inconsistencies as inquest into twins' deaths continues in Cairns

A Queensland coronial inquest has heard unexplained discrepancies in evidence surrounding the simultaneous deaths of two premature infant twins, including questions about mobile phone usage and early morning laundry activities in the hours before the babies were found dead.

The 18-week-old boys, who cannot be identified under legal suppression orders, died in their Far North Queensland home in late 2021 after spending approximately one month at home on oxygen support following their premature birth at 27 weeks' gestation.

Coroner raises concerns over account inconsistencies

Coroner Melinda Zerner told the Cairns Courthouse that there were "a number of inconsistencies in evidence which have not been addressed" during the opening day of proceedings this week.

The parents, who also remain subject to legal anonymity orders, gave evidence to the court regarding their movements on the morning of the deaths. However, they were unable to provide satisfactory explanations for certain activities, including queries about mobile phone usage and why the father had retrieved a sheet from the clothesline during the critical hours before the infants were discovered.

"There are a number of inconsistencies in evidence which have not been addressed." — Coroner Melinda Zerner

No criminal charges to be pursued

Despite the evidentiary gaps, the coroner indicated that the parents cannot be charged based on the truthful evidence presented to the court. This statement suggests the inconsistencies, while concerning, do not amount to admissible grounds for criminal prosecution under current legal standards.

The inquest comes at a particularly difficult time for the family, who had only recently returned home after spending months in hospital care with their medically vulnerable infants. Premature twins requiring oxygen support present significant ongoing care challenges for families navigating the transition from hospital to home-based management.

Investigation continues into cause of death

The coronial inquiry, being conducted by the Queensland Coroner's Court, is tasked with determining the precise circumstances and medical cause of the simultaneous infant deaths. Such investigations are particularly significant in cases involving very young children and medical vulnerability.

The inquest is scheduled to continue throughout the remainder of the week at Cairns Courthouse, with further evidence expected to be heard from medical professionals, family members, and other witnesses who may provide clarity on the events of that morning.

Under Australian coronial law, coroners investigate deaths referred to them to establish the identity of the deceased, the place and time of death, and the cause of death. They may also make recommendations aimed at preventing similar deaths in future.

Source

Originally reported by ABC News