Heartbroken family seek answers as inquest into teen’s death three decades ago begins

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are suggested that this text comprises a picture of an individual who has died.

A recent inquest into the demise of an Indigenous teenager will search to learn the way he ended up on practice tracks in regional NSW greater than three a long time in the past.

Mark Anthony Haines’ physique was discovered south of Tamworth on January 16, 1988.

An post-mortem confirmed the Gomeroi 17-year-old died from a traumatic head harm. An inquest into his demise returned open findings in 1989.

A stolen automobile was discovered close by and police concluded {the teenager} had laid on the tracks both intentionally or in a dazed state, one thing his household has by no means believed.

His sister Lorna Haines mentioned the household hoped this inquest could be their “path to justice”.

“My household have been ready 36 lengthy years to seek out out the reality about what occurred that night time,” she mentioned forward of the inquest.

“We hope that the coroner won’t relaxation till all of the information come out. All we would like is accountability and reality.”

The newest inquest started in Tamworth on Monday, earlier than deputy state coroner Harriet Grahame.

Instantly addressing Haines’ household in courtroom, Grahame mentioned she was taking the duty of discovering out what occurred to {the teenager} “extraordinarily critically”.

“I understand how lengthy you’ve gotten been working in the direction of today and I acknowledge your perseverance and resilience,” she mentioned.

In his opening assertion, counsel aiding the coroner Chris McGorey mentioned it was possible somebody had extra details about Mark’s demise.

“If there are individuals on the market able to help, it’s of important significance to Mark and his household and the group and to permit some dedication as to precisely what occurred,” he mentioned.

McGorey mentioned Mark was discovered on the tracks simply after 6am on January 16 by the crew of a practice passing by means of the realm.

He was final seen by his girlfriend about 3.30am.

McGorey mentioned one of many key questions for the inquest was how Mark got here to be on the tracks.

He mentioned the earlier inquest heard Mark’s sneakers had been clear, regardless of the bottom being muddy from rain that night.

“If Mark accessed the practice line throughout this climate, wouldn’t it be affordable to anticipate some marks on his garments,” McGorey mentioned.