An 11-year-old boy has tragically died five months after a house fire started by a battery that "exploded," an inquest was told.
Cole Leighton-Taylor suffered serious injuries when flames engulfed his home in Greenwood, Clayton-le-Woods, Lancashire, on January 6 this year. He was rushed to Royal Manchester Children's Hospital where he heartbreakingly succumbed to his injuries nearly five months afterwards, on May 29.
An inquest examining Cole's death commenced and was postponed at Preston Coroners' Court earlier today (Thursday June 11). The court was informed that Cole was born in Preston and his body was confirmed to PC Ben Gibson of Greater Manchester Police through his hospital identification wristband, reports Lancs Live.
During the short proceeding, Area Coroner Kate Bisset stated: "This boy died as a consequence of injuries he sustained in a fire when a battery exploded in his home and set alight."
A concluding inquest into Cole's death is scheduled at Preston Coroners' Court on October 15. The coroner continued: "I wish to pass my very sincere condolences to the family of Cole for their awful loss at this sad time."
Following Cole's passing, teammates from Charnock Richard FC honoured 'Captain Cole'. "He was a true leader on and off the pitch and a much-loved member of our football family – full of life, talent and joy. His loss leaves a profound void in our club," the club shared on Facebook.
A GoFundMe campaign established to assist Cole's family has amassed over £32,000. An additional fundraiser has been created for Cole's dad, Craig Taylor, to cover funeral expenses.
Pal Kelly Harrison shared on the GoFundMe page: "After 21 weeks and three days of fighting Cole unfortunately has very sadly passed away. He fought so hard right until the very end. His family and friends are all absolutely devastated."
