Eli David Testa, 4, died when a memorial stone fell on him at Rawtenstall Cemetery while he was visiting with his great-grandmother, an inquest has since been launched
A four-year-old boy was crushed to death by a falling memorial stone in front of his great-grandmother in a horrific incident as investigators are now examining how he died.
Eli David Testa died in a tragic accident at Rawtenstall Cemetery while he was with his great-grandmother on Saturday July 5. A stone memorial fell on the boy, from Rossendale, Lancashire, and killed him. Little Eli was rushed to the Royal Blackburn Hospital where advanced life support was attempted but he sadly died as a result of his injuries. A CT scan revealed he died from a traumatic head injury.
An inquest into his death was opened and adjourned today at Preston Coroners’ Court. Area Coroner Kate Bisset confirmed the police investigation had concluded but that the HSE had been “notified.”
The coroner said: “Eli was in a cemetery with his great-grandmother when a stone cross on top of a grave came loose and fell on top of him causing injuries which sadly resulted in his death. An ambulance was called and full advanced life support was started at the scene and he was transported to the hospital.
“Given the nature of the injuries and that there was a known cause of his death at that time he was subject to a post-mortem CT scan [as opposed to a full post-mortem examination]. The cause of death is likely to be recorded as a traumatic head injury. That will be a matter for the coroner at the final hearing.
“Police have confirmed there is no longer any active police investigation. There was no reason to suspect there was any suspicious circumstances or third-party involvement at the time. The HSE have been notified.”
The case is due to be mentioned in coroners’ court on October 9 in order to assess whether there will be any ongoing proceedings, reported The Manchester Evening News. Tributes have been paid to the youngster, who was praised as being a “bright soul who brought joy in the purest, most magical way,” while more than £17,000 has been raised for his family via a GoFundMe campaign.
Rossendale and Darwen MP Andy MacNae said during yesterday’s Prime Minister’s Questions that would pass his condolences to Eli’s parents Jessica and Tommy. The MP said: “Last week four-year-old Eli Testa was killed in Rawtenstall Cemetery when a memorial stone fell on him.
“All of Rossendale was shocked by this tragedy so I hope the Prime Minister will join me in offering our deepest condolences to Eli’s parents and family.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “Can I extend my deepest condolences to Eli’s friends and family.”