A British tourist has died in a 'tragic accident' after plunging from a hotel balcony in Tenerife, an inquest has heard. Harrison Hanley was holidaying on the Spanish island on April 25 when his body was discovered at the Parque Santiago 2 apartment complex on the Avenida Rafael Puig Lluvina in Playa de las Americas.
Details of the Incident
The swimming instructor, who lived in West Derby, was found by a maintenance worker and is said to have fallen from an 'internal balcony' in what is now being described as a 'tragic accident'. Speaking at an inquest hearing held in the Gerard Majella Courthouse in Liverpool, senior coroner André Rebello said: 'On the 25th April 2026, Harrison suffered trauma from a fall from an internal balcony in the apartment block where he was on holiday. Harrison died instantly from his injuries. There is no evidence that this was anything but a tragic accident.'
Coroner's Ruling
Rebello ruled Hanley's death was accidental, with his Spanish death certificate stating he died as a result of traumatic shock due to precipitation. The coroner told the court that this meant he died from injuries suffered from the fall. In attendance at the inquest were Harrison's dad, brother and auntie, with Rebello urging them to continue to 'celebrate Harrison's life in everything you do'.
Tributes from the Community
Following news of Harrison's death, his former school, St Sebastian's Catholic Primary School, shared a heartfelt tribute to the 20-year-old. Writing on its website, a spokesperson for the school said: 'It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Harrison Hanley, a much‑loved former pupil of St Sebastian's. Harrison had an infectious personality that lit up every room he walked into. He loved a challenge, he loved to laugh, and he had a smile that made others smile too! His energy, his warmth and his incredible talent as an athlete made him someone you simply couldn't forget.'
School's Condolences
The school has since opened a book of condolences to remember Harrison, allowing parents and teachers to share memories of the young man. They also held a balloon release on May 6. The tribute continued: 'As we come together in grief and remembrance, we hold Harrison's family in our thoughts and prayers, asking that they feel surrounded by the love, strength and support of our whole community. Harrison's light, laughter and spirit will stay with us. He will be remembered so fondly and always as a blessing to our St Sebastian's family.'
Fundraising Efforts
A GoFundMe donation page was also set up by a family friend, Jack Parry, to help Hanley's family following the news of his death. It said: 'Harrison Hanley was the biggest personality in any room, and had the gift of lighting up a space, lifting everyone around him just by being Harrison. Every memory we share of him is filled with an overwhelming laughter and gratitude. He is genuinely loved by everyone he met. Harrison always brought people together, and will continue to do so indefinitely. I have no doubt that everyone whose lives he touched, whether that be friends or family, will continue to spread the love that he so effortlessly gave to everyone else.'
Social Media Tributes
Sharing the fundraiser on Facebook, Hanley's friend Caitlin Webster wrote: 'This is my gorgeous friend Harrison, please take the time to read his story and donate, if possible, to help bring him home and give him the send off he so greatly deserves'. Another said: 'Blake's swim teacher has sadly passed away. I can't quite wrap my head around it and Blake is devastated. Harrison was brilliant with all the kids and an absolute pleasure to have known. Life is far too short'.
Further Tributes
St Hilda's High School said in a tribute: 'Harrison was a lover of life and of people, and everyone's favourite cheeky chappy. His silliness and sense of fun was matched with an infectious charm. He embodied everything you would want in a student, friend and child. Harrison was an incredible sportsman, but an even better human being. He brought people together, and made them feel ten feet tall. What has been especially striking is the strength and closeness of Harrison's friendship group, something that did not happen by chance. It is, in many ways, a reflection of him. Harrison brightened the room and your whole day. He made coming to work a joy, and every Harrison memory makes us smile.'
