A two-day inquest into the death of British graduate Lucy Harrison will take place on February 10 next year at Warrington Coroner's Court. The 23-year-old from Warrington was shot dead while visiting her father's home in Texas in January.
A Grand Jury in the US determined there was insufficient evidence to charge anyone with criminal negligent homicide in connection with her death. The coroner confirmed this week that the inquest could now proceed after criminal proceedings had concluded.
Lucy Harrison was visiting her father Kris Harrison's home in Prosper, Texas, when she suffered a gunshot wound to the chest from what police described as "medium range" on January 10. She died later that day at Baylor Scott and White Medical Centre.
US legal decision
The case went through the US courts with no prosecution after a grand jury reviewed all evidence presented by prosecutors. They determined there was not enough probable cause to indict or charge anyone for criminal negligent homicide.
An autopsy found the Manchester Metropolitan University graduate died from a single gunshot wound fired by another person. She tested negative for alcohol and drugs.
Her mother Jane Coates criticised the decision not to charge anyone for the crime. She said: "It is baffling and beyond comprehension to us, our families and friends, that there is to be no accountability for what happened to my daughter."
Legal system differences
The difference between the UK's Crown Prosecution Service and the US Grand Jury system has been highlighted as a key factor in the family's frustration with the outcome, according to the Daily Mail. Jane Coates added: "The international element, coupled with a different legal system, practice, and thresholds, makes the outcome even harder and more frustrating to accept."
Remembering Lucy
Lucy had recently bought a house with her boyfriend Sam Littler and worked for fashion retailer Boohoo. Her family has requested donations to Peace and Mind UK, a charity founded in memory of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey, according to the Daily Mail.
In a tribute, her mother and boyfriend described her as someone who "lived life fiercely and fearlessly". They said: "Lucy was life. She lived it fiercely and fearlessly, not being afraid to feel all that life has to offer."
They added: "She was truly thriving in life and although this gives us great comfort, we are utterly heartbroken at the loss of our beautiful, gorgeous Luce."
Inquest process
The inquest opening was held this week at Warrington Coroner's Court. A written report stated: "Ms Harrison was on holiday in the USA when she has been fatally shot with a firearm."
Sources used: "Manchester Evening News", "Daily Mail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
