Showing posts with label padlock. Show all posts
Showing posts with label padlock. Show all posts

Session 15. Wednesday, May 2, 2012

SESSION 15. Wednesday, May 2, 2012
CORONER: Fiona Wilcox
8:45@skynewsgathererLegal submissions have begun in Gareth Williams inquest
8:46@skynewsgathererBarrister for SIS says that an unlawful killing option is not open to coroner Dr Fiona Wilcox
8:47@skynewsgathererCoroner agrees there is insufficient evidence for unlawful killing verdict and says narrative verdict is most suitable option
8:52@skynewsgathererCoroner says she will be making an assessment of reliability and credibility of the evidence
8:56@skynewsgathererCoroner says she will try to deliver before lunch. It could take up to 2 hours as it runs to "many pages"
8:56@stone_skynewsCoroner in Gareth Williams inquest says she cant see any other option for verdict other than narrative or open verdict
8:56@stone_skynewsThe coroner says that an open verdict would not give weight to the considerable evidence heard in the inquest
8:56@stone_skynewsCoroner says there isnt enough evidence to consider a verdict of unlawful killing. Looks like it will be a narrative verdict
8:56@stone_skynewsA narrative verdict is an option open to a coroner when other verdict options don't fit case. It's a short factual statement outlining facts
8:56@stone_skynewsA narrative verdict does leave open the option to include any failures by any party relevant to circumstances of the death
10:18@skynewsgathererVerdict in inquest into death of Gareth Williams will now not be until at least noon
10:21@stone_skynewsBREAKING NEWS - Spy Death: Unlawful killing verdict ruled out. Video analysis here: news.sky.com
10:57@skynewsgathererPolice and family friends taking their seats in coroner's court ahead of narrative verdict into the death of Gareth Williams
11:03@stone_skynewsFor updates on verdict in the Gareth Williams inquest follow my colleague @skynewsgatherer & look back at her fascinating twitter timeline
11:04@skynewsgathererGareth's family have now arrived in court ahead of verdict
11:08@skynewsgathererCoroner Dr Fiona Wilcox begins summing up the evidence in inquest for death of Gareth Williams
11:08@skynewsgathererCoroner says she is unable to include speculation in her narrative verdict or express opinion or criminal liability
11:09@skynewsgatherer"This not a trial this is an enquiry," says Dr Wilcox
11:10@skynewsgathererCoroner can however comment on the "robustness" of the evidence presented before her
11:12@skynewsgathererCoroner decides which evidence she accepts and does not have to accept evidence from an expert - even if it is unchallenged
11:12@skynewsgathererUnlikely that this death will ever be satisfactorily explained, says coroner
11:13@skynewsgathererCoroner says there has been a lot of speculation but little evidence. Fundamental question as to cause of death still unanswered
11:14@skynewsgathererCoroner going through sequence of events which led to Gareth being found in padlocked bag in bath
11:16@skynewsgathererCoroner says following cordon established there was no unauthorised entry by MI6 or SO15 officers or 3rd party
11:17@skynewsgathererCoroner explaining how Supt Michael Broster of SO15 acted as conduit between SIS and murder squad
11:18@skynewsgathererThe fact that no statements taken from MI6 officers affected quality of evidence at inquest says coroner
11:19@skynewsgathererCoroner accepts that MI6 sealed and protected Gareth's possessions at his workplace
11:20@skynewsgathererCoroner outlining chain of command, and reviews of police investigation
11:24@skynewsgathererCoroner says Supt Broster had either disregarded rules for gathering evidence or events were not as given in court
11:25@skynewsgathererBroster told court he seized Gareth's phone from work cabinet, took it back to Scotland Yard the handed it to another officer
11:27@skynewsgathererBag, memory sticks, leave card and keys were not known to either coroner or lead police officer until last TWO days of evidence
11:27@skynewsgathererCoroner says this questions reliability of the evidence
11:28@skynewsgathererCoroner: no evidence that Gareth died at hands of SIS colleague but still a legitimate line of enquiry as Gareth socialised with so few people
11:30@skynewsgathererCoroner: It was not Broster's role to decide on evidence. How could he act as conduit if he didn't pass info on?
11:31@skynewsgathererCoroner says she had considered adjourning verdict for further investigation
11:32@skynewsgathererCoroner now turning to chronology of last days of Gareth's life
11:36@skynewsgathererCoroner says MI6 should not have been allowed to analyse memory sticks and it wouldn't have happened if it was another agency
11:36@skynewsgathererCoroner remarks how clean and tidy Gareth's flat was - and the heating was on in August
11:38@skynewsgathererNo signs of robbery at Gareth's flat, says coroner as she lists items found at flat
11:39@skynewsgathererItems included CDs, bike gear, and 20k of women's high end clothing. No women's underwear
11:40@skynewsgathererBath robe and duvet on floor were "incongruous" with neatly folded clothes on bed, coroner says
11:41@skynewsgathererCoroner describing bag, padlock and the fact that Gareth's body appeared to be peaceful
11:43@skynewsgathererKey that fitted padlock were found in bag, and another on set of keyrings on bedside cabinet
11:44@skynewsgathererNo trace of semen inside or outside bag Gareth's body found in
11:45@skynewsgathererCoroner says fingerprints that were NOT found are more significant. No prints on bath where expected
11:46@skynewsgathererOver 300 house to house enquires made, court told
11:48@skynewsgathererCoroner outlining how extra time & resources were put into looking for 3rd party after mistake was made in logging DNA evidence
11:49@skynewsgathererCoroner says Gareth was extremely intelligent and close to his family, with a sharp sense of humour. Also keen cyclist
11:50@skynewsgathererGareth was fell runner with passion for the mountains, interested in art, fashion, music and Japanese cartoons
11:51@skynewsgathererCoroner says interest in Manga was important piece of evidence and will come back to it
11:52@skynewsgathererGareth was a clearly private person, he had few friends - no friends visited his flat. He was single at time of death, says coroner
11:53@skynewsgathererEven Gareth's friends and family did not know he had been on fashion courses
11:55@skynewsgathererGareth's sister describes him as cautious risk assessor. Which coroner says is difficult to "square" with suggestion of bondage interest
11:56@skynewsgathererIf Gareth had interest in bondage Coroner says that she would have expected more Internet searching
11:57@skynewsgathererCoroner says she finds it "highly unlikely" that Gareth got into the bag as part of bondage
11:58@skynewsgathererIf Gareth had got into bag he would have taken knife in with him because he was a risk assessor, says coroner
12:00@skynewsgathererThere's no evidence of semen to suggest autoeroticism, says coroner. Also no evidence that Gareth was interested in cross dressing
12:00@skynewsgathererMost of women's clothes would have been too small for Gareth and lack of female underwear was "inconsistent"
12:01@skynewsgathererMake up and website browsing was more likely to be have been due his interest in Manga rather than being transvestite
12:03@skynewsgatherer1000 pound boots found at Gareth's flat would have fitted his sister
12:06@skynewsgathererCoroner questions whether leaks to the media about Gareth cross dressing were attempts to manipulate the evidence
12:08@skynewsgathererCoroner now turning to Gareth's state of mind
12:09@skynewsgathererGareth had asked to go back to GCHQ and move was not initiated by MI6. No one who knew him had worries about him
12:10@skynewsgathererNo evidence that Gareth wanted to leave and set up his own business or that he was being followed
12:14@skynewsgathererCoroner says Gareth had "robust" finances. He spent a lot of money on fashion collection but there's no evidence of debt
12:15@skynewsgathererNo evidence of suicide intent, says coroner
12:16@skynewsgathererCoroner says she is half way through her summing up
12:21@skynewsgathererCoroner going through evidence from MI6 workers and the fact it took a week to report Gareth missing
12:23@skynewsgathererCoroner says credibility of evidence difficult to accept - it not very often that MI6 officers are found in such peculiar circumstances
12:25@skynewsgathererWitness G says he had not seen holiday request card despite it being in a shared cupboard
12:26@skynewsgathererCoroner says Witness G had ample evidence to know Gareth was missing as he had failed to turn up at meetings
12:28@skynewsgathererThe fact that Witness G couldn't remember when he last saw Gareth was 'beginning to stretch the bounds of credibility' says coroner
12:32@skynewsgathererNothing was done to try and find Gareth until Aug 20th says corner. Witness G says it was 17th
12:33@skynewsgathererPhone records shows that no calls were made to Gareth's phone on 17th
12:35@skynewsgathererCoroner now turns to whether any evidence of interference with crime scene
12:37@skynewsgathererDCI Sebire had stated that there was no evidence that the bag had been washed and following 23 Aug crime scene was protected
12:37@skynewsgathererCoroner says its pure speculation that flat was entered by someone between 16th and 23rd Aug 2010
12:41@skynewsgathererCoroner says how Gareth's personal risk was not increased after he and team won award for "world class" project
12:42@skynewsgathererGareth had never worked "operationally" overseas and had never been to Afghanistan
12:43@skynewsgathererThere was no reason to think Gareth's death was connected to his work, says coroner
12:44@skynewsgatherer"Once more, lots of speculation and no evidence," says coroner
12:45@skynewsgathererGareth's body had minor unexplained injuries says coroner. No evidence of strangulation or defensive injuries
12:46@skynewsgathererPathologists agreed that although cause of death was unascertained only 2 possibilities. Suffocation or poisoning
12:46@skynewsgathererCoroner says she accepts that cause of death was unnatural
12:48@skynewsgathererCoroner says it is possible Gareth entered bag voluntarily outside bathroom and moved - but she says unlikely
12:49@skynewsgathererGrazes on elbows could have been caused by attempt by Gareth to reach the lock - however no evidence that he tried to escape
12:50@skynewsgatherer"On balance more likely that Gareth entered the bag alive & died soon afterwards either by hypercapnia or effects of unknown poison"
12:51@skynewsgathererCoroner says she cannot be sure death was unlawful
12:53@skynewsgatherer(Hypercapnia is too much carbon dioxide in blood)
12:54@skynewsgathererCoroner turns to bag expert evidence. Inquest heard from 2 people who tried to lock themselves into similar XL North Face holdall
12:58@skynewsgathererCororer: Either Gareth got in bag and moved to bath by 3rd party or was put in bag by 3rd party
12:59@skynewsgathererCoroner says that she is satisfied that 3rd party moved bag containing Gareth into the bath
13:00@skynewsgathererPoisoning remains a possibility as to how Gareth died says Coroner
13:01@skynewsgathererIt's remotely possible that Gareth was found dead in bag and moved - but why would 3rd party clean up if not involved, asks coroner
13:02@skynewsgathererHow did bag get in bath? It didn't levitate there. Why would the heating be on during a hot time of the year? Asks coroner
13:03@skynewsgathererCoroner says she had not seen any evidence of motive or direct causation of death. Or who 3rd party might be
13:04@skynewsgathererCoroner cannot return unlawful killing as she cannot be sure. She also discounts all other short term verdicts and chooses narrative verdict
13:05@skynewsgathererCoroner says wiped phone also raises questions as to whether it was used to arrange meeting
13:06@skynewsgathererCoroner says that on balance of probabilities Gareth was killed unlawfully
13:07@skynewsgathererCause of Gareth's death was unnatural and likely to have been "criminal" says coroner
13:08@skynewsgathererCoroner says Gareth's death was "criminally mediated"
13:10@skynewsgathererCoroner concludes by thanking barristers and DCI Jackie Sebire, officer in charge of case
13:10@skynewsgathererCoroner also passes sympathy to Gareth's family. "Nothing can be said to bring your son back to you," she says
13:12@skynewsgathererCoroner says death was criminally mediated - as yet death not treated as murder by Met, but as suspicious
13:28@skynewsgathererPhotographers waiting for statement from Gareth Williams family
13:40@skynewsgathererMI6 chief apologises "unreservedly" to Mr Williams's family over way inquiry hampered by his colleagues failing to react
13:44@skynewsgathererFamily statement on @SkyNews
13:45@skynewsgathererFamily disappointed in failures by MI6 to make possible evidence available to police
13:46@skynewsgathererFamily thank DCI Jackie Sebire. Say they miss Gareth every single day
13:54@skynewsgathererDCI Jackie Sebire says police now chasing new lines of enquiry raised during inquest
16:01@skynewsgathererAwaiting statement at New Scotland Yard for Met Police response to criticisms arising from Gareth Williams inquest
16:05@skynewsgathererStatement expected any minute from Deputy Assistant Commissioner Martin Hewitt. It will be on @SkyNews
16:08@skynewsgathererMet: review launched into exhibit handling in Gareth Williams investigation
16:40@skynewsgathererPolice appeal for anyone with info relating to death of Gareth Williams to call incident room on 0208 358 0200 or crimestoppers
END OF SESSION 15. Wednesday Morning/Afternoon, May 2, 2012

Link to source of May 2 coverage

Session 13. Tuesday Morning, May 1, 2012

SESSION 13. Tuesday Morning, May 1, 2012
8:42@skynewsgathererBack with @Stone_SkyNews for final stage of inquest into death of Gareth Williams. Today DCI Jackie Sebire will be recalled
8:58@skynewsgathererCoroner has asked to recall Ros Hammond, forensic scientist from LGC. Plus call a DC Hall from Met and an anonymous witness called SIS D
9:05@stone_skynewsBack at what should be the penultimate day in the inquest of MI6 spy Gareth Williams. The coroner should deliver verdict tomorrow
9:07@stone_skynewsThere is now suggestion already that things may slip in Gareth Williams inquest. Coroner is asking for witnesses to be recalled
9:07@stone_skynewsThe forensic scientist who gave evidence yesterday, a police officer and a new anon MI6 witness could be called on to give evidence
9:11@skynewsgathererDCI Jackie Sebire back in the witness box, she is the SIO in Gareth Williams case
WITNESS: Jackie Sebire
9:12@skynewsgathererCoroner asks if detective had ever been provided with a list of Gareth's belongings from SIS or GCHQ. She says no
9:13@skynewsgathererDetective says the first she heard of a North Face holdall being found amongst work things was yesterday
9:14@skynewsgathererDCI says she only learnt this morning that 9 memory sticks were found with Gareth's work belongings
9:16@stone_skynewsThroughout this inquest there has been an awkward desire to balance public interest with national security
9:16@stone_skynewsCoroner grants anonymity to a further MI6 witness and recalls the Forensic Scientist, Ros Hammond later today
9:16@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer asking if DCI had been aware of memory sticks in 2010 if she would have looked at them
9:19@skynewsgathererDCI says that memory sticks would have been checked had she known about them. DCI was only told of emails
9:24@stone_skynewsInteresting developments - cop in charge of investigation says she was not aware of 9 memory sticks found in Gareth Williams work belongings
9:25@skynewsgathererGareth Williams inquest now in chambers. Update when we are allowed back into court
9:37@skynewsgathererNext up is DC Colin Hall, he had not been due to give evidence today
WITNESS: Colin Hall
9:38@skynewsgathererDetective went to MI6 offices on 26 August, 3 days after Gareth was discovered dead
9:40@skynewsgathererDC Hall was taken to the room that Gareth shared with 3 colleagues. He was taken to one of 3 cabinets
9:42@skynewsgathererDetective told certain items were for Gareth's work and he couldn't examine them. No inventory was taken
9:44@skynewsgathererDC Hall works a forensic officer with the Met's counter terrorism team SO15
9:45@skynewsgathererDC says there was no evidence that Gareth's cabinet had been sealed following his death. But it was locked
9:49@skynewsgathererDC Hall says it's not be routine to take an inventory of items. He only recorded a photocopied birth certificate of Gareth and a note pad
9:49@skynewsgathererItems were seized on DC's second visit to MI6
9:51@skynewsgathererDC says that if he had seen a mobile phone in Gareth's office he would have seized it. DC doesn't remember seeing one
9:55@skynewsgathererDC says he found a black North Face back under Gareth's desk. It contained 'personal items'. The bag was not seized
9:56@skynewsgathererDC says he was told by Supt that the bag should be locked and left in place. ' I am a DC I do what I am told'
9:57@skynewsgathererDC admits that the bag should have been seized. The bag was looked through but no inventory was taken
9:58@skynewsgathererDC says he was acting on orders from Supt Michael Broster
10:01@skynewsgathererGareth's work cabinet was sealed on August 26 during So15's 55 minute visit. DC says the search was cut short
10:02@skynewsgathererDC doesn't know why search was cut short but that he had to return the following day to complete it
10:04@skynewsgathererDC Hall also attended search of GCHQ, where Gareth had worked before secondment to SIS in London
10:06@skynewsgathererDC found 3 'entirely' empty draws with the keys found in the top one, inquest told. He says he would have made note if any docs found
10:08@skynewsgathererDC Hall confirms he has security clearance when asked by family lawyer. The DC went into Gareth's flat the day body found
10:10@skynewsgathererDC's job was to look for 'sensitive' items in the flat. He found some but none were seized, he tells inquest
10:14@skynewsgathererUnder questioning from family lawyer DC Hall admits cabinet was not 'sealed' but relocked with same combination lock by MI6
10:16@skynewsgathererDC changes evidence and says the bag was locked and put in cabinet not left in situ under table as he said earlier
10:18@skynewsgathererDC Hall says bag was unlocked by MI6, he can't remember how it was locked and unlocked
10:19@skynewsgathererDC says he can't remember exactly what was in the bag. Family lawyer says 'it's as helpful as a London pea-souper'
10:20@skynewsgathererDC was told by superior officer not to take Gareth's passport. He says he can't remember where it was
10:21@skynewsgathererDC asked if Kray twins were involved rather than SIS if things would have been done differently
10:22@skynewsgathererDC says he was told by MI6 as to what was sensitive and what was not
10:22@skynewsgathererDC Hall: "I was under instructions and as I said I do what I am told."
10:33@stone_skynewsIt emerges that the only items seized by police from Gareth Williams 2 work places were laptop, post-it note pad & birth certificate copy
10:35@skynewsgathererDC saw memory sticks but was told they contained sensitive information
10:37@skynewsgathererMI6 barrister making the point that SO15 was brought in because of security clearance and could have requested to seize items
10:46@skynewsgathererDC Hall asked about a hotel bill and medical note found in cabinet. DC says he did not seize those items
10:48@skynewsgathererSIS barrister now asking DC Hall if he could be wrong that Gareth's pedestal at GCHQ was empty. Asking if 2 H&S certs were there
10:50@skynewsgathererDC Hall saying he is relying on his notes he made at the time. It makes no mention of health and safety certificates
10:57@skynewsgathererBag in question found at MI6 has now been brought into court. Coroner wants to check lock - police taking forensic advice
10:59@skynewsgathererDC Hall showing the court how big Gareth's work cabinet was - looks about six feet tall
11:03@skynewsgathererCoroner pushing whether DC Hall would have known if Supt Broster had discovered phone in cabinet
11:03@skynewsgathererDC hall eventually replies: "I would have thought I would have known"
11:04@skynewsgathererDC Hall now putting on gloves to look at the lock on North Face bag found in Gareth's office
11:05@skynewsgathererThe bag is unlocked and empty, there are no padlocks, or locks of any kind on it
11:07@skynewsgathererDC Hall says he can't be sure it was the bag in question
11:08@skynewsgathererPolice now checking in various carrier bags to see if they can find lock
11:09@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer remarking that whole point of exhibits officer is to record items which could be relevant
11:10@stone_skynewsCourt has now seen the bag said to have been found but not seized at Gareth Williams MI6 office. It is a small black North Face holdall
11:12@skynewsgathererDC Hall has now been released from court to go and look for a padlock after checks made with crime scene manager
11:13@skynewsgathererForensic scientist Ros Hammond from LGC now recalled for a couple of quick questions from coroner
WITNESS: Ros Hammond
11:13@stone_skynewsCrux of morning questioning is why police did not seize certain/all items from Gareth Williams workplace? Were they prevented from doing so?
11:15@stone_skynewsCoroner also examining who locked/unlocked/sealed/unsealed items at Gareth Williams MI6 office. Confusing lines of questioning
11:16@skynewsgathererMs Hammond asked about timing as to when DNA error discovered. Mistake uncovered on Feb 7 and confirmed on 8th
11:19@skynewsgathererInquest adjourned for lunch after an incredible morning of evidence
END OF SESSION 13. Tuesday Morning, May 1, 2012

Link to source of May 1 coverage

Session 12. Monday Afternoon, April 30, 2012

SESSION 12. Monday Afternoon, April 30, 2012
13:37@skynewsgathererForensic scientist Ros Hammond now giving evidence
WITNESS: Ros Hammond
13:39@skynewsgathererMs Hammond is explaining that DNA on Gareth's hand was actually from fellow scientist. Error was only discovered on Feb 8 2012
13:48@skynewsgathererMs Hammond says it is first time she has come across this sort of error - it was mistake in manually inputting data into system
13:51@skynewsgathererScientist got a 3 and 5 mixed up. There are now automatic computer checks in place to prevent it happening again, inquest told
13:59@skynewsgathererThere's evidence from at least 2 other unaccounted for people in Gareth's flat, says scientist
14:00@skynewsgathererHowever Ms Hammond says DNA can last for weeks, even years
14:01@skynewsgathererBlood stain on bag and carpet came from Gareth, scientist tells inquest
14:02@skynewsgathererAll other DNA stains tested gave a profile which matched Gareth's inquest told
14:03@skynewsgathererThere was DNA on bag handles which was not Gareth's but no clear profile found, inquest told
14:13@skynewsgathererWitness says DNA tests on a towel are still ongoing which could prove helpful in a future criminal trial
14:14@skynewsgathererTests on towel will be concluded "within weeks" says Ms Hammond
14:18@skynewsgathererWitness says that if someone else locked the padlock, she would not necessarily expect to find their DNA
14:20@skynewsgathererDNA is transferred at a different level depending on circumstances, eg: whether hands had been recently washed and type of surface
14:22@skynewsgathererSteve Allen, who is responsible for running LGC forensics division, is now giving evidence
WITNESS: Steve Allen
14:24@skynewsgathererCoroner says the mistake in inputting data was an "error waiting to happen" and asks why safe guards were not in place
14:29@skynewsgathererGary Pugh, head of Met Police forensics, now up. He says DNA presented to court can be relied upon
WITNESS: Gary Pugh
14:33@skynewsgathererEvidence in Gareth Williams inquest now finished for today. Coroner says she hopes to give her verdict Wednesday
END OF SESSION 12. Monday Afternoon, April 30, 2012

Link to source of April 30 coverage

Session 11. Monday Morning, April 30, 2012

SESSION 11. Monday Morning, April 30, 2012
9:04@skynewsgathererGareth's body was removed from the bottom of the bag - not via the zipped opening
9:05@skynewsgathererTwo hairs were found on Gareth's thumb
9:08@skynewsgathererDr Swift says that if someone was already dead when moved there would be no bruising
WITNESS: Benjamin Swift
9:09@skynewsgathererDr Swift says that in cases of smothering there are often no marks left
9:11@skynewsgathererDr Swift found a 0.6cm bruise to left forearm, graze to left elbow and 0.7 graze to right elbow, and inner left eye socket
9:12@skynewsgathererDr Swift says injuries likely to have been caused after death due to position in the bag
9:14@skynewsgathererNo injuries in Gareth's neck, or head, there were 3 internal bruises to loin, elbow and right chest wall. No bruising around wrists
9:17@skynewsgathererDr Swift says injuries could have been caused accidentally. No signs of obvious poisoning
9:18@skynewsgathererNo obvious signs of natural disease
9:19@skynewsgathererPathologist: No significant traumatic injury, no injuries of offensive or defence nature, no sexual assault
9:20@skynewsgathererPathologist Dr Swift could not confirm cause of death
9:21@skynewsgathererPathologist tells coroner there we no signs from Gareth's finger tips that he tried to get out the bag
9:23@skynewsgathererCause of death could not be ascertained due to decomposition of Gareth's body, pathologist says
9:26@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer now asking questions about how decomposition affected results of PM. Inquest hears how the heating was on in August
9:27@skynewsgathererDr Swift refuses to speculate on what might have caused Gareth's death
9:29@skynewsgathererWhen pushed Dr says asphyxiation and poison were two 'foremost contenders' to be most likely cause of death
9:33@skynewsgathererExperienced pathologist Dr Ian Calder performed 2nd PM
WITNESS: Ian Calder
9:35@skynewsgathererDr Calder says he agrees with Dr Swift that if Gareth had been moved after death he wouldn't have sustained bruises
9:36@skynewsgathererDr Calder agrees that cause of death was 'unascertained'
9:40@skynewsgathererDr Calder explains that it's not so much the lack of oxygen in bag - but the build up of carbon dioxide
9:42@skynewsgathererCO2 makes people confused which would make someone 'fade away with no pain and increasing lack of awareness of environment' says witness
9:46@skynewsgathererDr Calder says 'very likely' cause of death was hypercapnia (too much carbon dioxide in blood)
9:54@skynewsgathererDr Richard Shepherd, acting for the coroner, now giving evidence. He agrees with other 2 pathologists
WITNESS: Richard Shepherd
9:55@skynewsgathererDr Shepherd found no patterns of injuries and no restraining injuries
9:56@skynewsgathererDr Shepherd says it would have been 'extremely difficult' to place a newly dead body into the bag
9:57@skynewsgathererDr Shepherd says a person 'playing dead' is not same as an actual dead body. His experience is that it would be 'very difficult process'
9:58@skynewsgathererDr says that if Gareth was alive going in bag he would have expected some 'gripping injuries'
9:59@skynewsgathererDr says it's more likely that Gareth was alive when he entered the bag than dead
10:01@skynewsgathererDr agrees 'mode of dying' was most likely carbon dioxide
10:03@skynewsgathererDr says two possibilities of cause of death were suffocation or poisoning
10:05@skynewsgathererInquest hears that although cause of death is unascertained Gareth's death is 'unnatural'
10:09@stone_skynewsPathologist says in his opinion Gareth Williams death was unnatural and caused either by poisoning or suffocation because of too much CO2
10:09@skynewsgathererDr Shepherd says it is possible that Gareth voluntarily got into the bag
10:11@skynewsgathererDr: Gareth would probably have been aware oxygen was running out but not known at what stage this would happen
10:13@skynewsgathererPathologist suggesting Gareth would have known air was running out but he may already have been too affected by Co2 to do anything about it
10:16@skynewsgathererTo sum up - on balance of probability Gareth was alive getting into bag and would have had some awareness, says witness
10:17@skynewsgathererOn balance of probability the mode of dying was hypercapnia but cause of death unascertained
10:25@skynewsgathererPathologists says the youngest & fittest can survive hypercapnia the longest
10:26@skynewsgathererInquest taking short break. Then will hear from forensic scientists on DNA evidence
10:58@skynewsgathererInquest resumes with evidence from coroner officer's Barry May
WITNESS: Barry May
10:59@skynewsgathererMr May was asked to investigate by previous coroner after family raised concerns about 2nd PM examination
11:02@skynewsgathererRequest for 2nd independent PM didn't follow protocol due to inexperience of a worker the coroner's office
11:07@skynewsgathererPolice, family and first pathologist weren't told of 2nd examination when they should have been
11:12@skynewsgathererInquest told of 'communication breakdown' in the former coroner's office in regard to 2nd PM examination
11:16@skynewsgathererStatement now from Tony Larkin, a scientist from forensic firm LGC. He looked of bloodstains, DNA and hairs
WITNESS: Tony Larkin
11:19@skynewsgathererMr Larkin found a spot of blood near lights switch and an 'aged' spot of blood on the floor
11:23@skynewsgathererMr Larkin says possible bloodstain on bag - but very weak result
11:24@skynewsgathererAlso weak blood spot on the padlock
11:26@skynewsgathererMr Larkin actually works for Met Police - witness list was incorrect
11:36@skynewsgathererInquest hears that an error in logging DNA means that Gareth's family thought there was evidence of 3rd party
11:37@skynewsgathererDNA was actually from another scientist - error was only found when case was reviewed
11:41@skynewsgathererInquest now adjourned until 2pm
END OF SESSION 11. Monday Morning, April 30, 2012

Link to source of April 30 coverage

Session 9. Friday Morning, April 27, 2012

SESSION 9. Friday Morning, April 27, 2012
9:34@rachyoungerskyMorning. Covering inquest into death of MI6 officer Gareth Williams. Expecting demo of whether possible he locked himself inside bag
9:34@rachyoungerskyCoroner calls William MacKay who says nature of his work to investigate unusual occurrences in confined spaces
WITNESS: William MacKay
9:34@rachyoungerskyMacKay says v flexible young man who carried out reconstruction managed to get in to bag without help or instruction at first attempt
9:34@rachyoungerskyinquest shown film of how man did so - mackay explains how poss to lock bag first then manually make space to allow person to enter
9:34@rachyoungerskyMacKay then explains how found it to be impossible when attempted to lock bag after getting in
9:34@rachyoungerskyMacKay says unless individual manages to get into locked bag at very first attempt, pen used to manipulate zip would damage it
9:35@skynewsgathererFirst witness is William MacKay, who was asked by police to try and reconstruct getting into a bag
9:36@skynewsgathererMr MacKay, who has military background, also asked to investigate how well someone could breathe in closed bag
9:36@skynewsgathererInquest now watching DVD of someone in a bag like the one Gareth Williams was found in
9:36@skynewsgathererIt shows fingers pulling zip closed from the inside
9:36@skynewsgathererNext clip shows the bag locked from the outside before anyone gets in and then the zip forced open with a pen
9:36@skynewsgathererThe man then gets in and tries to close the zip behind him
9:36@skynewsgathererThe 3rd experiment was to try and lock the zip whilst inside the bag - it couldn't be done
9:36@skynewsgathererExperts says that if someone had got in after forcing the zip open - the zip was damaged when it was closed
9:39@skynewsgathererExpert says he tried experiments on the bag more than a 100 times
9:43@rachyoungerskyMacKay says only way to train for this would be with assistant or taking knife into bag with you. Coroner points out £700 bag to cut
9:44@skynewsgathererExpert essentially saying that to lock the bag from the inside the person would have needed 3 hands
9:46@skynewsgathererExperts found that due to lack of oxygen after a few mins they had to rest, the lock then dropped and they had to start it all again
9:47@rachyoungerskyMacKay showing court picture of lock and zip to show how 3 Actions needed: hold zip together, hold lock, lock bar but only 2 hands
9:50@skynewsgathererOne cord attached to the zipper was also in usual position - which the expert says would have made locking the bag even harder
9:50@rachyoungerskyMacKay says when they tried both he+assistant lost dexterity in fingers, had to rest momentarily, meant starting locking process anew
9:53@rachyoungerskyMacKay says Williams prowess as rock climber would mean tremendous power developed in his fingers which would have aided his ability
9:56@skynewsgathererInquest hears at times experts got reasonably close to locking bag - but thinks without a lot of training it couldn't be done
9:57@skynewsgatherer'There are people around that can do amazing things,' expert tells inquest
9:58@rachyoungerskyMacKay refuses to rule out possibility that Williams could have locked himself in to bag as found at scene using this scenario
10:00@skynewsgathererExpert has refused to rule out the possibility that Gareth Williams locked himself in the bag
10:05@skynewsgathererExpert says that if someone wanted to get out of the locked bag, 'with adrenaline running', they would find a way
10:06@skynewsgatherer'There would be an option of saving yourself,' says expert
10:06@rachyoungerskyMacKay showing video illustrating how possible once locked in to open zip small amount to greatly increase flow of oxygen
10:08@rachyoungerskyMacKay: We found it difficult to pull much further than this - I would offer if adrenalin kicked in you would find way to do it
10:11@skynewsgathererExpert says someone of Gareth Williams size would have had no problem getting into the bag
10:12@rachyoungerskyMacKay shows still of best position to be in bag to get out, points out on side ideal. "This was not the position he was found in"
10:16@skynewsgathererExpert says he has lost sleep trying to work out why the zip cord was in unusual position
10:22@rachyoungerskyinquest shown still of experts elbow area with red patches - if enough attempts made "should be red area on skin"
10:27@skynewsgathererExpert tested whether he could breathe in the bag by getting in it in a swimming pool
10:32@skynewsgathererMr MacKay now answering questions from family lawyer. Expert confirms he never managed to lock himself in bag unaided
10:34@rachyoungerskyunder questioning from family lawyer MacKay clarifies neither he nor assistant ever managed to lock themselves in to bag
10:38@skynewsgathererMr MacKay saying that if someone wanted to survive they could have opened bag from the inside
10:47@rachyoungerskyMacKay says if you were an escapologist you would pull it (the bag) open, grab the key and everyone would be amazed
10:55@tomskynewsThe footage of the tests to see if it was possible for a person to lock themselves into a holdall coming up shortly on @skynews
10:57@tomskynewsConclusion of first "bag expert" is that is was very very difficult for someone to lock themselves into holdall but couldn't rule it out
11:08@skynewsgathererSecond bag expert now giving evidence. It's Peter Faulding, who is similar size to Gareth Williams
11:09@rachyoungerskynext bag expert Peter Faulding (apt name!) now describing how he climbed into a similar bag
WITNESS: Peter Faulding
11:10@skynewsgathererMr Faulding, placed a bag similar to the one found a flat, in a bath and tried to get in it
11:11@skynewsgathererDVD shows Mr Faulding lying on his back, on the bag, and trying to manoeuvre himself in
11:12@skynewsgathererDVD shows Mr Faulding struggling to get in, he touches bath, tiles and rests feet on the taps in process
11:13@skynewsgathererMr Faulding says he wants to make it clear that it would dangerous to attempt to 'try this at home'
11:15@rachyoungerskyPeter Faulding, expert whose name you couldnt make up, shows DVD contorting himself into bag. Tells press to warn public not to try it
11:17@rachyoungerskyyou can see footage inquest has been watching on sky news now as coroner has released it to media
11:18@skynewsgathererExpert says that being in a bath made the bag harder to get into. Once in, temperature rose fast
11:21@skynewsgathererMr Faulding says he can't say it's impossible to lock the bag from the inside but 'even Houdini would struggle with this one'
11:23@skynewsgathererWhen pushed Mr Faulding says it would have been impossible for Gareth to get into the bag, in the bath, unaided without leaving any marks
11:26@skynewsgathererMr Faulding says that one person could have easily lifted the bag with Gareth's body into the bath without leaving marks
11:27@skynewsgathererMr Faulding says that it would have been very, very easy to put Gareth into the bag if he was unconscious or dead
11:29@skynewsgathererMr Faulding says that if the key had just dropped from the padlock it would be unlikely to have ended up where it did
11:32@skynewsgathererExperiment on oxygen levels in the bag showed that amount of oxygen decreased rapidly after 5 mins
11:33@skynewsgathererOxygen level dropped to just 17%
11:34@skynewsgathererMr Faulding thinks that Gareth could have survived a maximum of 30 mins in the bag
11:35@skynewsgathererMr Faulding says it would be impossible to get into bag in scenario Gareth found in
11:36@skynewsgathererExpert: 'Why would you climb into bag in the bath?.... I believe he was placed in the bag by a 3rd party'
11:38@skynewsgathererExpert tells Gareth Williams inquest that he believes Gareth was placed in bag by 3rd party
11:40@skynewsgathererInquest adjourned while officers prepare 999 call tape for the court. Back at 2pm
END OF SESSION 9. Friday Morning, April 27, 2012

Link to source of April 27 coverage

Session 3. Tuesday Morning, April 24, 2012

SESSION 3. Tuesday Morning, April 24, 2012
7:43@skynewsgathererBack to inquest of Gareth Williams this morning with @skymartinbrunt and @Stone_SkyNews. More on @SkyNews
8:03@skymartinbruntBack at MI6 spy in bag inquest. Expecting to hear from top cop. With @skynewsgatherer and #Stone_Sky News
8:41@skynewsgathererStart of inquest in to death of Gareth Williams running late. First witness today is expected to be DCI Jackie Sebire
8:53@stone_skynewsBack at the inquest into death of GCHQ code breaker Gareth Williams - will hear today from a close friend of his & top cop on investigation
8:55@skymartinbruntUnexplained delay so far
9:06@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams is about to get underway
9:08@skymartinbruntCoroner bans court artists from drawing in court or the media annexe
9:08@skynewsgathererCoroner has denied a request from court artists to be able to draw in court
9:10@skymartinbruntFamily of Gareth Williams and MI6 objected to court artists drawing in court
9:13@skymartinbruntCoroner says she has not seen the report based on MI6 internal investigation which it shared with police
9:14@skymartinbruntMI6 and GCHQ say they did no external investigation into Mr Williams death
9:15@skynewsgathererInquest adjourned after Gareth's mother becomes upset and leaves court. Coroner says all parties have a right to hear proceedings
9:16@skymartinbruntBBC about to challenge coroner's ban on court artists drawing in court. They are not allowed to do so in criminal cases
9:20@skymartinbruntCourt adjourned briefly says coroner to allow Mr Williams ' mother Ellen to "calm down." Mrs Williams appeared very distressed
9:20@stone_skynewsThe inquest into Gareth Williams death is naturally difficult for his family. His mother just left the room, visibly upset. Inquest paused
9:25@skymartinbruntFamily's lawyer attacks media for delaying hearing by arguing for court artists to draw in court. Mrs Williams not in court
9:27@skymartinbruntFamily's lawyer says family has nursed grief and kept away from media for 20 months and want to get on with hearing
9:28@skymartinbruntCoroner confirms no court artists working in courtroom because of family's severe distress and clear grief
9:30@skynewsgathererFirst witness of Gareth Williams inquest now giving evidence. It's DCI Jackie Sebire
WITNESS: Jackie Sebire
9:31@skymartinbruntDet Chief Insp Jackie Sebire explains how she and her murder team were called the night Mr Williams died
9:32@stone_skynewsInquest resumes: Gareth Williams mother left court because upset by delays while issues over media coverage / court artists are discussed
9:32@stone_skynewsA difficult balance at Gareth Williams inquest: strong desire for transparency but must be balanced w/ privacy & secrecy considerations
9:34@stone_skynewsMy colleagues @skynewsgatherer and @skymartinbrunt are tweeting at Gareth Williams inquest too. Worth a follow. More at www.skynews.com
9:35@skynewsgathererDCI describing how cordons were set up around the crime scene says SO15 were informed as they deal with all cases involving SIS
9:35@skymartinbruntSebire says counter terror cops alerted because they deal with all matters involving intelligence agencies
9:36@skynewsgathererDCI tells inquest her job was to task all specialist officers
9:37@skymartinbruntSebire says head of homicide also informed. Police knew it involved a spy but didn't immediately know his identity
9:38@skynewsgathererInquest hears that a DS Quinn had control of the crime scene - even though there were higher ranking counter terror officers there
9:43@skynewsgatherer'It was my scene and no one was allowed in there without my authorising it - or the crime scene manager' DCI tells inquest
9:45@skynewsgathererPolice log shows who entered the crime scene and whether they we wearing protective clothing
9:46@skynewsgathererTwo officers went into the block of flats without protective clothing - but they were only interviewing neighbours and didn't go in flat 4
9:48@skynewsgathererInquest now going through log for who entered crime scene on 24 August 2010
9:49@skynewsgathererDCI said that no one could go into crime scene until she got there. Even the crime scene manager
9:54@skymartinbruntSebire says she doesn't know why crime scene logs don't show if certain cops went into the building
9:59@skynewsgathererAll the people logged going in and out of the crime scene were known to DCI Sebire
10:02@skynewsgathererOne officer from SO15 (counter terrorism) went in to crime scene after getting permission on 23rd, inquest hears
10:03@skynewsgathererNo one from GCHQ or MI6 entered the crime scene according DCI Sebire
10:03@skymartinbruntSebire says no one went into flat without her permission
10:04@skynewsgathererDCI says a new front door, with new locks and an alarm, was put on the flat to protect it from anyone trying to get in
10:05@skymartinbruntPolice replaced front door and new alarm to stop Press or others trying to get in
10:05@stone_skynewsCourt artists have been banned from the Gareth Williams inquest. Coroner says it would be distracting to her & family. Open court tensions
10:06@stone_skynewsBanning artists in Gareth Williams inquest b/c they'd 'distract' is odd: they don't draw in court. They sit, they memorise then LEAVE & draw
10:06@skynewsgathererDCI tells inquest that whilst on holiday Gareth Williams had popped into London office and gone shopping in Knightsbridge
10:08@skymartinbruntMr Williams went shopping mover several days when returning from US work/hold trip 12 days before Death
10:09@skynewsgathererOn August 13th Gareth Williams went to drag show in Bethnal Green
10:10@skynewsgathererInquest being shown CCTV of Gareth Williams going into Harrods on August 15. He bought cakes
10:11@skynewsgathererPolice say he was 'alone, not being followed and relaxed'
10:13@skynewsgathererCCTV then captured Gareth Williams buying steaks in Waitrose
10:14@stone_skynewsCourt at Gareth Williams inquest now being shown CCTV of his last known movements. Shopping in Knightsbridge on 15/8/10
10:14@skymartinbrunta dozen brief CCTV cops show Mr Williams out shopping in Knightsbridge and awaking home 8 days before his death
10:15@skynewsgathererGareth Williams can be seen walking home at 1503 on August 15 after spending the day shopping. He's wearing beige trousers and red top
10:15@skymartinbruntSebire says no evidence he was being followed that day
10:16@stone_skynewsCourt hears that Gareth Williams visited a comedy & drag show - The Jonny Woo Experience - in Soho on 12/8/10 alone
10:17@skynewsgathererInquest now being shown a video of the crime scene
EVIDENCE: video of the scene
10:17@skymartinbruntCorrection, eight days before body discovered
10:18@skymartinbruntMr Williams due back to work the next day 26 Aug but alarm not raised till 23 aug when body found
10:18@skynewsgathererPictures start at the black front door with checkered black and white floor tiles. Officer stands guard at the front
10:19@skynewsgathererIt's a communal front door. Black squares can be seen on the floor which have been put down by SOCO to prevent contamination
10:19@skynewsgathererFront door to flat 4 is open with keys still in the door
10:19@skymartinbruntVideo of his flat now bing shown
10:21@skynewsgathererThere are no signs of forced entry to the flat. Stairs lead straight up from front door. First door leads to store room
10:22@skynewsgathererStore room contained Atom racing bike and cycling equipment
10:23@skynewsgathererAnother flight of stairs leads to the living room and the kitchen. The oven door was open. Flat is very sparse and tidy
10:24@skynewsgathererThere was just a kettle and toaster on counter. Food he bought from Waitrose was still in fridge
10:25@stone_skynewsWe're being shown police video now of the inside of Gareth Williams Pimlico flat as it was when body found. Flat is immaculately tidy
10:26@skymartinbruntBright orange wig seen hanging on back of chair in living room
10:27@skynewsgathererIn living room there's an orange wig, books, drawings, shoes. The red t shirt he was wearing in CCTV was on clothes maiden
10:28@skymartinbruntWashing hanging in living room
10:28@stone_skynewsIn living room of flat is the wig that's been reported about - interesting to see it finally: looks like a fancy-dress wig - shocking pink
10:29@skymartinbruntNewspaper cutting "Top 5 Regrets of the Dying"
10:29@skynewsgathererThere was also a newspaper article by a nurse called 'Top 5 regrets of the dying'
10:29@stone_skynewsIn living room of flat is the wig that's been reported about - interesting to see it finally: looks like a fancy-dress wig - shocking orange
10:32@skymartinbruntArticle says regrets include "I wish I had courage to live a life true to myself"
10:32@skynewsgathererThere was also a note saying that someone had called at flat at 1930 on August 16th but no one had answered
10:33@skymartinbruntAnother regret listed in article: "I wish I had courage to express my feelings"
10:33@skynewsgathererOn the sofa there was a lipstick and Mac foundation. A receipt showed the foundation was bought at Harvey Nichols
10:35@skynewsgathererVideo shows very clean tidy bathroom. No shampoo bottles etc
10:36@skynewsgathererIn Gareth Williams flat there was also a laptop and phone which were examined by police
10:37@skymartinbruntIn spare bedroom were two big North Fce sports hold ally's like the one in which his body was dound
10:37@skynewsgathererIn back bedroom there were two stacked North Face yellow hold alls. Clothes and bedding neatly folded on the bed
10:38@stone_skynewsIn back bedroom are two of the North Face holdalls similar to the one Gareth Williams body was found in in bathroom
10:38@skynewsgathererIn main bedroom there was a crumpled bathrobe on the floor. The duvet was also on the floor yet very neat folded clothes on bed
10:39@stone_skynewsIn main bedroom, bed clothes are strewn on the floor with bathrobe, but clothes neatly on bed. Coroner remarks that it looks incongruous
10:39@skynewsgathererDCI admits that the duvet on the floor and neat clothes on the bed look odd
10:40@skynewsgathererThere was also a crumpled white shirt on the floor near the wardrobe. It looks like it's fallen out - still on hanger
10:40@skymartinbruntIn his bedroom are folded clothes on bed but bathrobe and duvet cover on floor
10:40@skynewsgathererVideo now showing en suite bathroom with red North Face hold all in the bath
10:42@skynewsgathererShower screen is in place. The bag was where officers had found it. The bag is zipped shut and locked with small padlock
10:42@skymartinbruntVideo shows padlocked bag in bath where Mr Williams body was found
10:44@skynewsgathererA 15mm cut has been made in the bag - made by police officers. A 15mm Yale padlock had been used to lock bag
10:45@skynewsgathererInquest hears how the lock would have had to have been twisted to get through two eyelets of zip and closed
10:46@skymartinbruntGraffix shows how two zip eyelets have to be drawn together before padlock bar slipped thru both and then turned and pushed locked
10:46@stone_skynewsInquest now shown video footage of the red North Face holdall in bath with Gareth Williams body inside. Holdall is locked from outside
10:46@skynewsgathererPadlocks were the same as other padlocks found in the flat. They were made in 2008 and sold in packs of four
10:46@stone_skynewsThe holdall looks like one I've attached. It is locked with Yale padlock from outside - zip eyelets linked and locked. p.twimg.com
10:47@skymartinbruntSebire says it would be very difficult to do that locking movement
10:49@skynewsgathererIt looks like socks paired up and folded on the bed - strange scene given duvet cover was crumpled on floor
10:50@skynewsgathererVideo exiting the flat shows a pan on the stairs
10:51@skynewsgathererThe door of the flat was taken away for examination - no evidence that the locks had been tampered with
10:51@skymartinbruntSebire says difficult to explain why clothes neatly folded but duvet and bathrobe crumpled on bedroom floor
10:51@skynewsgathererInquest adjourning for 15 minute break
11:08@skynewsgathererIncredible amount of security at Gareth Williams inquest. Just been stopped and questioned going to the loo
11:16@skymartinbruntSebire says no evidence of forced entry into flat
11:17@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams resumes
11:20@skymartinbruntSpot of old blood from Mr Williams on flat carpet
11:20@skynewsgathererInquest being shown 3d graphics of lay out of flat. Spot of blood from Gareth found on floor outside kitchen
11:21@skynewsgathererThe cream cakes in Harrods box bought by Gareth on August 15 were found in the kitchen
11:22@skymartinbrunt2 footprints that couldn't be identified on kitchen floor
11:22@skynewsgathererThe kitchen was very clean. No prints found on the grill pan. Tea towel still being analysed, says DCI
11:25@skynewsgathererTrousers and a pair of Gareth's underpants found in the living room. 26 pairs shoes, only 4 used, were found in bedroom. Size 6
11:26@skynewsgathererClothing found in back bedroom was 'immaculate' and still in tissue paper says DCI
11:26@skymartinbruntSports bags had 26 pairs of women's shoes in mr Williams size 6 size
11:28@skymartinbruntLots of high value female clothes and Stella McCartney shoes found in holdalls
11:28@skymartinbruntCops Ali found pairs of high heel black patent boots
11:28@stone_skynewsThe Gareth Williams inquest now being told about £20,000 worth of women's clothing found in his flat. 26 pairs of new shoes. Size 6-6.5
11:28@stone_skynewsCoroner asks is size of women's shoes found in flat is same/similar to Gareth Williams shoe size. Witness (Met officer) says yes
11:29@skynewsgathererUnused nail varnish, wigs, make up and shoes by Stella McCartney, Chloe, Dior and Louboutin all found in boxes in back bedroom
11:30@skynewsgathererAll shoes were Williams' size and clothes looked like they would have fitted him says DCI
11:31@skynewsgathererClothes found would have cost 20k. One pair of shoes cost 1000 pounds
11:31@skymartinbruntClothes worth £20,000. Several wigs. Clothes all small or medium. He bought one wig on recent US trip
11:31@skynewsgathererThe orange wig found in living room was bought by Gareth Williams when he visited America
11:31@stone_skynews"Extensive high value collection [of clothes] in my opinion." says witness DCI Jackie Sebire. 1 pair of shoes was £1000. Mostly unworn
11:32@skynewsgathererSmall blood spot and semen found on bathrobe belonging to Gareth Williams
11:34@skynewsgathererSmall locked cash box found in bedside cabinet. It contained receipts and the keys to padlocks found on hold alls, which contained clothes
11:34@skymartinbruntReceipts showed he had been buying women's clothes for two years
11:35@skynewsgathererReceipts showed Gareth Williams had been buying women's clothes since 2008
11:37@skynewsgathererSemen from Gareth Williams found in the en suite bathroom but no other DNA. There are no finger prints on lower tiles above bath
11:39@skynewsgathererDCI Sebire says she would have expected to find Gareth's prints on lower tiles if he had lent on them to balance getting into bag
11:39@skymartinbruntSebire thought from early on that someone else was involved in his death
11:40@skynewsgathererGareth Williams was found naked in the bag. His legs were folded up to his chest
11:40@skynewsgatherer'His face was very calm. His hands were laying on his chest' says DCI
11:41@stone_skynewsInquest now shown computer generated graphic showing position of Gareth Williams inside NorthFace bag. Foetal position. No struggle sign
11:41@skynewsgathererThere were no injuries to nails or fingers as if he had been trying to get out. There were no signs of stress on the bag
11:42@skynewsgathererInquest shown laser scan imagine of how Gareth Williams was found in the bag
11:43@skymartinbruntSebire believes he did not try to get out of the bag
11:43@skynewsgathererInquest hears how Gareth Williams was a very fit man, the flat would have been very hot in August 2010
11:43@stone_skynewsNo sign of struggle to get out of bag. No marks inside bag suggesting attempt to escape. No signs of distress on Gareth Williams body
11:45@skymartinbruntTwo keys that cld have opened bag were lying under his buttock
11:45@stone_skynewsDCI Jackie Sebire was the senior officer at Gareth Williams scene. She is talking through the investigation & her observations / opinions
11:46@skynewsgathererExample of the bag shown to the inquest. Actual bag used was a base camp duffle XL and made up to 2006
11:47@skymartinbruntSebire says it would have been very hot and incredibly uncomfortable inside the bag
11:48@skynewsgathererPolice say they have tested the bag and it would be very difficult to 'manipulate' the bag from the inside
11:48@stone_skynewsThe coroner is now being shown bag identical to the 1 Gareth Williams was found inside. She observes its sturdiness. p.twimg.com
11:50@skymartinbruntCoroner examines replica bag and has trouble lining up zips to lock it from outside
11:51@skynewsgathererWeak blood stains from Gareth Williams were found on handles of the bag
11:52@skymartinbruntWeak blood stains from mr Wiliams on bag handles
11:54@skymartinbruntSmall components of another persons DNA found on bag
11:56@skynewsgathererSmall components of another person's DNA found on bag - inquest will hear more later from DNA experts
11:56@stone_skynewsPolice witness reveals that "small components of another contributors DNA found on padlock of bag" containing Gareth Williams body
11:57@skynewsgathererGareth was described as a very private man - his two best friends had not even visited his home, says police
12:00@skynewsgathererLast time Gareth Williams was known to be alive was at 1am on August 16. He had been looking at website about cycling
12:02@skynewsgathererDCI clears up speculation an Italian family had access to flat - says it was a mistake and they had gone to wrong door
12:03@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams breaks for lunch. Back at 1400
12:03@stone_skynewsThe last time Police say they know Gareth Williams was alive was 1am on 16/8/10 when he checked a cycling website. He was found dead on 23/8/10
END OF SESSION 3. Tuesday Morning, April 24, 2012

Link to source of April 24 coverage