THE inquest into the death of a Bishopstone teenager who was killed by a polar bear has been adjourned until next Friday, when the coroner is expected to return his verdict.
Horatio Chapple, 17, was on an expedition to the Svalbard islands in August 2011 with the British Schools Exploring Society (BSES) when he died.
Two other young explorers, Patrick Flinders, 17, and Scott Bennell-Smith, 16, were injured by the bear as well as leaders Michael Reid, 29, and Andrew Ruck, 27, before the animal was shot dead by Mr Reid.
The inquest, which has been taking place at Salisbury Coroner’s Court this week, had been due to conclude today.
But coroner Ian Singleton needs more time to deliberate after potential new evidence came to light on Thursday evening.
He will return his verdict next Friday afternoon.
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