Liam Shackleton died accidentally, say coroners court

A six year old boy fell to his death from the eighth floor after child locks were removed from the window, an inquest has heard.

Liam Shackleton accidentally fell from the window of his grandfather's flat after climbing on to drawers.

Wakefield Coroner's Court heard that Liam's sister may have tried to prevent him from falling.

Coroner David Hinchliff said he would write to the landlord of the property and recommend they look into fitting all windows with static inhibitors to prevent them opening too wide.

Recording a verdict of accidental death, Mr Hinchliff said he would also recommend regular inspections of the properties to ensure safety features are in place.

The inquest heard that Liam was living in his grandfather's one-bedroom flat with his parents, Martin and Tanya Shackleton, and his four siblings, while they waited to be rehoused.

On the day of his death, on May 31 last year, the family moved furniture from the living room into the bedroom while workers replaced carpet tiles. A chest of drawers from the bedroom had been moved underneath the window to make room for extra furniture.

After the carpet was laid, the adults began to move the furniture back into the living room, leaving Liam and his sister playing in the bedroom. A short time later Liam's sister came into the living room to tell her mother Liam had fallen.

Mrs Shackleton, Liam's grandfather Peter Shackleton, another relative, Shaun Shackleton, and Mrs Shackleton's friend were arrested on suspicion of child neglect and Liam's father was arrested later but no charges were brought against any of those arrested.

Speaking after the inquest, Mr Shackleton, 36, said he agreed with the coroner's recommendations.

The inquest continues.