THE Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised that an inquest be conducted into the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, whose body was discovered on April 24, 2025, in a swimming pool at the Double Day Hotel, Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo.
An inquest is a judicial inquiry in common law jurisdictions and is held to determine the cause of a person’s death. In Guyana, a sitting magistrate, who acts as the coroner, empanels a jury, after which the inquest is conducted.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Guyana Police Force confirmed that it has received the legal advice and is taking the necessary steps to initiate the inquest in accordance with the law.
The DPP’s directive relates to the cause of, and circumstances surrounding, the child’s death, which occurred between April 23 and 24, 2025.
Adrianna’s death had previously been the subject of extensive investigation, including a post-mortem examination conducted by three internationally recognised forensic pathologists, as well as a comprehensive probe led by a retired Canadian homicide investigator.
Those findings concluded that the child died by drowning and that there was no evidence of foul play.
Despite those conclusions, the DPP has now determined that a formal inquest is necessary to further examine the circumstances of the case.
The Guyana Police Force said it recognises the importance of maintaining public confidence in matters of this nature and reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability and integrity.
Further details are expected to be provided as the inquest process moves forward.