A council investigation into the death of a youngster who died after an incident in a Colchester department store remains unfinished, a court has heard.
A jury inquest will explore the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of five-year-old Freddie Farrow, who suffered a fatal head injury in 2021.
Freddy, who was described as “lovely and cheeky” by family and loved ones, was hit by a falling mirror inside the Fenwick department store in High Street and was airlifted to Addenbrooke's Hospital.
The Gosbecks Primary School pupil died six days later on August 2.
Following the incident, Colchester Council launched an investigation into the circumstances, alongside the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
During a second pre-inquest hearing at Essex Coroner’s Court in Chelmsford on December 2, it was revealed the council’s report remains unconcluded.
A previous employee of Colchester Council told the court her role was discontinued before a conclusion was drawn and the report was delegated to the HSE.
In preparation for the inquest, which is due to start in February, the report will be finalised to be considered during the proceedings.
The court was also told the inquest will seek to answer questions about the mirror, how it came to fall and whether design, installation and maintenance were flawed.
A list of live witnesses and interested persons, those who are allowed to take an active part in the inquest, such as asking witnesses questions, was determined.
Further directions to make contact with the company, CKM, which installed the mirrors at the store but has its headquarters in Germany, were made to ensure that all sources for evidence were included.
Essex senior coroner Lincoln Brookes, who presided over the hearing, expressed his sympathy to Freddie's family.
He said: “I want to express my deepest condolences. His passing leaves a huge hole.”
The full inquest is due to take place in Chelmsford between February 3 and February 6.
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