Jay Slater Inquest Opens: Friends of Missing Teenager “Can’t Be Located)”
A coroner’s inquest into the death of teenager Jay Slater, who died under tragic circumstances in Tenerife last year, has heard that two friends who were supposed to be with him during his final hours are currently untraceable.
Jay Slater, a 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer from Lancashire, was on holiday in the Spanish island with friends Lucy Law and Brad Hargreaves. The teenager went missing on June 17, 2024, after being dropped off at an Airbnb apartment in the rural town of Masca.
According to reports, Jay made a heart-wrenching phone call to Lucy, stating that he was lost, dehydrated, and had only 1% battery left on his phone.
The inquest, being held at the Royal Courts of Justice, heard that extensive attempts have been made to locate Lucy and Brad, but both individuals have “stopped responding to phone calls.”
Senior Coroner Dr James Adeley expressed concern over the difficulties in tracing witnesses, stating: “When drugs are involved in a death, the witnesses are less than forthcoming and do not wish to speak to the authorities.”
The court also heard that Ayub Qassim, a convicted drug dealer who rented the Airbnb apartment where Jay spent his final hours, has also been difficult to track down.
The post-mortem examination concluded that Jay Slater died of traumatic head injuries, consistent with a fall from a height. Toxicologist Dr Stephanie Martin revealed that ecstasy and cocaine were found in Jay’s system.
The inquest was told that Jay’s body was identified using a palm print, which was compared with records held by Lancashire Constabulary.
Jay’s distraught mother, Debbie Duncan, has previously spoken out about her son’s tragic death, questioning why he got into a car with two older men after a music festival and went to their Airbnb apartment.
Debbie expressed her grief, stating: “I don’t know what he thought he was doing by going with these two guys. I really don’t know… In our minds, we think he’s not realised where he was going.”
The inquest is ongoing, with further details expected to emerge.
As reported by The Sun, the inquest will examine the circumstances surrounding Jay Slater’s tragic death.
The Sun has spoken to Jay’s family and friends, who are still reeling from the loss of the young teenager.
The Samaritans offer a 24-hour crisis helpline for people struggling with their mental health. You can call them on 116 123.
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