Get the app →
BriefTea logoBriefTea

Every story in sixty words

Get the free app no ads · no paywall

Explained in plain English

What if no cause is found?

If no cause of death is found, the coroner will record an ‘open conclusion’. This means the inquest has explored all available evidence but cannot determine how Pamela died. It doesn't mean the investigation stops; new evidence could lead to a new inquest. This can be very difficult for grieving families like Martin and Pamela's.

Stories that explain this

Welsh Mum Dies Swimming With Turtles In Maldives Days Before 30th Anniversary

Questions this opens up

What is an open conclusion? Does this happen often? What if new evidence emerges?

Related explainers

How common are snorkelling deaths? How important is tourism to the Maldives? What does an inquest actually do? Why an inquest for a calm water death? Are turtles protected in the Maldives? Could AI cause a market crash? How could AI cause harm? How does AI cause inflation?

The full catalogue

Browse every card filed under I →