The coroner reopened an inquest into Robert Price's death to examine state failures that may have contributed to his tragic demise. Price, 76, died from burns and smoke inhalation after being targeted by youths who pushed a firework into his home. His brother expressed concerns about repeated abuse and the local authority's neglect despite awareness of the situation. The coroner acknowledged the family's belief in missed opportunities for intervention, aiming to ensure lessons are learned from this case, while ongoing investigations relate to the police's handling of prior reports.
Senior coroner Graeme Irvine said, 'It seems to me that your brother's death was tragic and it was a horrible, horrible death.'
Mr. Palmer stated, 'There was time and time again that he was subjected to abuse from the local youths and in the end, they killed him.'
Barrister Adam Clemens acknowledged, 'I accept that there is a long history of crime reports and safeguarding referrals regarding Robert Price.'
The coroner noted, 'I want to make sure that his death is looked at closely to ensure that lessons are learned.'
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