The family of a British tourist who was discovered deceased at the base of a lift shaft in a Turkish hotel is raising concerns about the police inquiry into his demise, as revealed during an inquest today.
Tyler Kerry, a 20-year-old furniture fitter from Pitsea, Essex, was found dead in just socks and boxer shorts at the Trendy Lara hotel in Kundu, near Antalya, on November 29, 2024. His grandparents, Ray and Collette Kerry, suspect foul play in his death, contrary to the Turkish authorities’ conclusion of no external involvement.
Essex Area Coroner Michelle Brown confirmed that legal representatives for Tyler’s family contested the investigation findings, seeking a new probe to ascertain any signs of wrongdoing. The challenge was based on perceived flaws in the initial inquiry.
Danielle Belton, a close friend of Tyler’s grandparents, disclosed that the matter is pending review by the Constitutional Court of Turkey, with a potential hearing delayed for 18 months. Noteworthy was the discovery post Tyler’s passing, where most of his attire was found separated from his body alongside his phone and vape stained with blood.
Further doubts arose when it emerged that another guest at the hotel had allegedly faced assault by security personnel in the hotel basement. The coroner mentioned a court-ordered investigation into Tyler’s access to the lift shaft, incorporating evidence from his phone, hotel CCTV, and DNA retrieved from under his fingernails, though initial findings predominantly linked the DNA to Tyler.
A scheduled full inquest into Tyler’s death was postponed due to pending legal documents from Turkish authorities. The coroner adjourned the proceedings with a view to reconvene on March 11, emphasizing the importance of a conclusive inquiry.
Tyler’s grandparents, Ray and Colette, along with Ms. Belton, were present during the hearing, where the complex circumstances surrounding their grandson’s demise were outlined. Legal complexities arising from the absence of reciprocal legal agreements between the UK and Turkey complicated the investigative process.
The post mortem results, conducted by pathologists from East London and Turkey, indicated that Tyler’s death resulted from multiple injuries and blunt force trauma. Toxicology tests were hindered by embalming, but alcohol levels exceeding the UK’s legal limit were reported.
Despite differing conclusions from the UK and Turkish pathologists, both ruled out third-party involvement in Tyler’s death. Legal representation by Michael Polak from Justice Abroad was noted, although his status in the inquest proceedings was clarified.
Mrs. Kerry expressed anticipation for closure through the upcoming full inquest, acknowledging the challenges posed by the Turkish legal system. The family’s persistence in seeking answers aligns with their belief in potential gaps in the investigation warranting further scrutiny.