by Dan Judd
An Inquest into the Hillsborough stadium disaster has had its jury declare that the 96 victims were unlawfully killed, clearing Liverpool fans of the blame that has besmirched them for 27 years.
Findings were revealed after two years of evidence and testimony at Birchwood Park, where blame has shifted towards the responsibilities of South Yorkshire Police and Ambulance Service.
Police action at the time of the event failed to prevent the situation from escalating, with the court stating ‘their (South Yorkshire Police) failure to recognise and call a major incident led to delays in response to the emergency’.
Later on in proceedings the jury vindicated the families of the 96 who have long campaigned the false accusations that Livepool fans were to blame – with a poster criticising The Sun shown outside the courtroom.
Asked whether ‘any behaviour on the part of the football supporters caused or contributed to the dangerous situation at the Leppings Lane turnstiles?’ The jury answered ‘no’.
The Inquest also suggested parts of Hillsborough’s design and signage were also inadequate for safety standards at high capacity, where the FA Cup semi-final was being held in 1989.
Criminal proceedings could follow with the Independent Police Complaints Commission looking closely at the organisation and individuals.
Upon leaving the courtroom, the victims’ families celebrated the absolution of the 96.
Emotional relatives of #Hillsborough victims emerging from the inquiry break out into song https://t.co/T0v9gpN0qL
— Sky News (@SkyNews) April 26, 2016
