A coronial inquest has commenced in Cairns, examining the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of a baby girl in the Atherton Tablelands region of Far North Queensland.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The inquest, which opened on Monday, is investigating the death of Wren Preo, who was just over four months old. The infant was found unresponsive in a vehicle at a property in the Tablelands region on February 17, 2022. Despite efforts to save her, she was later pronounced deceased at the Atherton Hospital.
State Coroner Terry Ryan is overseeing the proceedings at the Cairns Magistrates Court. The hearing aims to establish a clear and factual account of the events leading to Wren's death. Counsel assisting the coroner, Rhiannon Helsen, outlined that the inquest would hear from multiple witnesses, including family members, police, and medical professionals, to piece together the timeline of that day.
The Inquest's Scope and Witnesses
The court heard that on the day of the incident, Wren had been in the care of her father, Jarrad Preo. Evidence is expected to detail the movements of the family and the moments leading up to the devastating discovery. The inquest will scrutinise the actions taken and the responses of emergency services.
Among the first witnesses called was Detective Senior Sergeant David Walk, the officer in charge of the investigation. His testimony provided initial background on the case presented to the coroner. The proceedings are anticipated to last for several days as more evidence is presented.
A Search for Answers and Prevention
While not a criminal trial, the coronial inquest serves a vital public function. Its primary purpose is to determine the facts surrounding a death, including the identity of the deceased, how they died, and the circumstances that contributed to their passing. A key outcome sought by such inquiries is to identify any systemic issues or safety concerns that could be addressed to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The death of baby Wren Preo sent shockwaves through the close-knit Tablelands community. This formal process is a difficult but necessary step for the family and the community in seeking clarity and closure. The findings and any recommendations from Coroner Ryan will be delivered at the conclusion of the hearing.
