Nicola Bulley died as a result of drowning and was alive when she fell into the water, a Home Office pathologist has said. An inquest has opened into the death of the mum who sparked nationwide interest when she suddenly disappeared while walking her dog.
Dr Alison Armour, giving evidence at an inquest at County Hall in Preston, said watery fluid and fragments of dirt found inside Ms Bulley’s body were “typical features we see in cases of drowning”.
She added that Ms Bulley was alive when she entered the water and that there was “no evidence” she was harmed.
Nicola Bulley had not been drinking before her death, a Home Office pathologist said.
Dr James Adeley, senior coroner for Lancashire, asked Dr Alison Armour, who was giving evidence at an inquest at County Hall in Preston: “At the time of her death she had no alcohol in her bloodstream?”
Dr Armour replied: “That’s my opinion.”
Extra security is in place for the inquest into Nicola Bulley’s death due to the social media interest in the case, the coroner said.
Dr James Adeley, senior coroner for Lancashire, said “additional security provisions” have been put in place by police and the county council.
He added: “This is to ensure the safety of everyone attending the inquest.”
The coroner also warned attendees not to disrupt proceedings, following “unusual online commentary” about Ms Bulley’s death.
Nicola Bulley’s family has been addressed by the coroner ahead of the inquest into her death.
Dr James Adeley, senior coroner for Lancashire, told members of her family, who were in court: “I’m sorry that you are attending this court under these circumstances.”
He was told to refer to Ms Bulley as Nikki during the hearing.
Nicola Bulley’s partner and sister are set to give evidence during the inquest into her death.
Paul Ansell and Louise Cunningham are both listed as witnesses, and are due to give evidence on Tuesday.
The County Hall in Preston was busy with members of the public and media on Monday morning ahead of the two-day hearing.
