Noah Woods died after getting out of play area through 'gap in the fence', inquest hears

Three-year-old Noah Woods, who was found dead following a huge search in Suffolk, had got out of a play area "through a gap in the fence", an inquest has heard.

The toddler, who was non-verbal and partially deaf, became separated from a relative at a playground in Brantham on 15 September.

An inquest into Noah's death opened at Suffolk Coroner's Court on Friday and heard that he walked through the gap in the fence "leading to the memorial garden where he left through an open gate".

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Connick told the hearing that Noah was "being closely followed by his relative who was trying to keep up with him".

He said the relative "shouted after him", but after 200m Noah could not be seen.

"Police were called and a large-scale search operation began," he said.

Noah's body was recovered from the nearby Decoy Pond by police divers the next day.

In a tribute shared by Suffolk Police, his family said: "Noah was a happy, cheeky, playful three-year-old boy who loved to laugh, loved to giggle and who brought joy wherever he went.

"He was part of a loving and caring family, living with his mummy, daddy and his little baby brother. He was at the centre of our world.

"Noah was being assessed for autism, although he had not received a diagnosis. He also had mild hearing loss and was speech delayed.

"Despite the challenges he faced, he was learning every day. He was saying new words all the time and had only just started finding and using his little voice.

"One of the things we miss most is the special sound of his voice. It was unique, wonderful, and something we will carry with us forever."

His family said Noah would go to the park every Tuesday "with a treasured relative".

"They had the most wonderful relationship, they loved playing chase together, running around, and exploring the play equipment," they said.

They added: "Noah loved to be loved. He was the most affectionate little boy. He loved hugs and kisses and soaked up every bit of affection he was given.

"Every night he would be tickled to sleep. He loved holding hands, being close to people, and feeling safe and loved by those around him."

Noah's mother Charlie Peck said: "If there is one thing we could ask of people, it is to hold their children a little tighter, cherish every moment, and never take those precious memories for granted."

Mr Connick told the hearing Noah was found "approximately five metres from the bank and within submerged tree roots".

He said the depth was estimated at about 7ft (1.8m) at that point.

Noah's death was confirmed at 4.31pm by paramedics and his identity was formally confirmed by Ms Peck, at Ipswich Hospital that evening, the inquest heard.

Police said at the time that Noah's death was not suspicious.

Jyoti Gill, assistant coroner for Suffolk, said at the start of the hearing: "I would like to express my deepest condolences to Noah's family and friends and all those affected by Noah's death."

The inquest, which was not attended by Noah's family, was adjourned until a later date.

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About 1,300 volunteers joined police and emergency services in a major search operation to find Noah.

The inquest heard Noah was captured on CCTV playing at the playground between 2.13pm and 2.37pm on the day he went missing.

Noah's death prompted an outpouring of community support, including a fundraiser that has generated more than £100,000 in donations.

(c) Sky News 2026: Noah Woods died after getting out of play area through 'gap in the fence', inquest hears