Lancashire coroner rules on cause of death of Lancashire boy, 12, tragically found in disused Rossendale mill

Nirvana fan Brody O'Brien was discovered unresponsive at the building in Whitworth, Rossendale.

Despite desperate efforts to save him, he died shortly afterwards.

Brody's family said they refused to believe that he had intended to kill himself.

They said they believed that his writings relating to "suicide" were linked to his love of the rock band Nirvana and former front man Kurt Cobain.

Area coroner Emma Mather said she could not be sure what Brody's intentions were. She said aged 12 he was probably unaware of the high risk of losing his life.

The inquest at Preston Coroner's Court heard that Brody, of Whitworth was a talented guitar player and pianist.

He died on October 7 last year. There were no suspicious circumstances.

His family told the coroner in statements that he was generally happy and played in a band with his friends.

His mum Jade said he had been excited about his birthday which was coming up.

On October 7 he came home from school and went out to meet his friends as usual.

After 9pm, she became concerned that he was late coming home.

They raised the alarm and police were informed. Brody was found hanged at the disused building.

Pathologist Dr Neil Papworth, who carried out a post mortem, said the cause of death was hanging. The word "suicide" and other phrases were found written on his arms in pen. There were no drugs or alcohol in his system.

Dr Papworth estimated that Brody had died in the four hours or so before he was found.

Det Insp Manny Ancheampong said a search was made of a small computer which Brody used. Searches on the day of his death included included "Kurt Cobain life and death" and "best suicide methods".

Asked by the coroner whether his death could be part of a "prank" or a game, the detective said it could be the case, but there was no evidence.

Recording a narrative verdict, Ms Mather said it was clear that Brody was a "bright star".

She said: "This is one of the most tragic cases I have ever heard."

She said she could not be sure that Brody intended to take his own life.

There was evidence of planning, but also evidence that he was looking forward to the future.

"I can't say why he did what he did," said Ms Mather.

She added she would be contacting the owners of the derelict mill to express concerns about security at the site.

For confidential support, Samaritans can be contacted for free around the clock 365 days a year on 116 123.

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