An inquest into the deaths of three members of the Spence family has heard how they died after entering a slurry tank on their farm near Hillsborough, County Down, in September 2012. Ulster rugby player Nevin Spence, his father Noel, and brother Graham all perished in the incident.
The court heard that Graham Spence was the first to enter the tank after being told a dog had fallen in. He used a ladder to descend into the tank, which contained about four feet of slurry. After about 20 seconds, he attempted to climb back up but fell back into the tank.
Nevin Spence then went in after his brother and was overcome by fumes, followed by their 58-year-old father Noel, who also lost consciousness. Family members, including sister Emma Rice, attempted rescues. Emma managed to pull her father out and began first aid before re-entering the tank to find Graham. She lost consciousness but was rescued by a neighbour.
A fire officer with breathing apparatus found Nevin and the dog in the tank. Noel and Nevin were pronounced dead at the scene, while Graham died later in hospital. Emma was treated at the Royal Victoria Hospital and told the coroner she was aware of the dangers but acted out of love for her family. The coroner praised her bravery.
The inquest, which is expected to conclude on Tuesday, will hear from over 25 witnesses, including family, neighbours, and emergency services. Nevin Spence, aged 22, was a rising star in Ulster rugby and was considered a future Ireland international.
