Inquest opens into the death of baby Zakari
HEARING TOLD BOY’S BODY WAS FOUND IN RIVER
AN inquest has been opened into the death of a baby boy who died after being found in the River Irwell.
Zakari William Bennett-Eko, who was 11 months old, was found near a bridge on Blackburn Street in Radcliffe, Bury, earlier this month.
Yesterday, a short hearing, at North Manchester Coroners’ Court in Heywood, Rochdale, was given brief details about the events of September 11.
Coroner’s officer Jane Scullion confirmed that police were called to River Street after being alerted by members of the public, and discovered a baby in the river.
The officer said Zakari was taken to Royal Bolton Hospital, where it was confirmed that he had died.
Initial post mortem results list Zakari’s cause of death as ‘immersion.’
Area coroner Catherine McKenna adjourned the hearing until a review on December 19.
Zakari’s father, Zak Eko, 22, appeared at Manchester Crown Court earlier this month in connection with the death of his son.
He faces two charges - one of murder and one of manslaughter. He will next appear in court on December 20 for a plea hearing.
A proposed trial date has been set for March 2020.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Zakari’s mum Emma Blood paid tribute to the ‘most wonderful, cute little boy.’
She said: “Zakari was my life for 11 months and will be the heart of our family for many years to come.
“He was a cheeky little chappie, with a smile that melted hearts. He was the youngest of five generations of our family and was loved beyond belief.
“Zakari wrapped everyone around his little finger.
“He was a happy and content baby with a gorgeous little smile and a head full of curls.
“Everyone that met him fell in love with him instantly.”