THE death of a Durham University student in the River Wear was an accident with no suspicious circumstances, a coroner has ruled.

Since Euan Coulthard became the third Durham student to drown in the River Wear within 15 months on Wednesday, January 14, there have been persistent rumours of someone targeting vulnerable young people.

But when asked today (Tuesday, May 12) whether there was anything to give credence to any suspicion, Detective Inspector Dunlop McCubbin said: “None whatsoever.”

Concluding the 19-year-old’s inquest, Durham Coroner Andrew Tweddle said: “There can only be one conclusion. Euan’s death was due to an accident.

“He didn’t intend to die. It was one of those things that sometimes can happen. I’m relieved to hear from the police this wasn’t a suspicious death.”

On the night he died, Mr Coulthard, a law student from Nottingham, had been out celebrating a 21st birthday with friends.

They had been drinking, enjoyed a meal and gone to the Loveshack nightclub.

Mr Coulthard, a St Mary’s College student, was asked to leave the club by door staff shortly before midnight, the inquest heard.

CCTV showed him walking through Durham Market Place, across Framwelgate Bridge and down some steps to the riverbank, “stumbling but not falling down,” DI McCubbin said.

He was last seen alive on CCTV at three minutes past midnight heading towards Durham Cathedral.

His death triggered an urgent safety review, which has led to a so-called drunk tank, better night bus and taxi services, a student-led riverside angels support scheme and pub door breath tests.

Other changes could follow, such as new fences and lights.

Mr Coulthard’s family said they had been profoundly distressed and heartbroken by his death.

“Euan, his smile like the rising sun, was a joy to all who knew and loved him. Academically gifted, talented and hard-working, he was the first in his family to go to university.

“The world is now a much poorer place without this fine young man, our beautiful son Euan.”

Professor Simon Hackett, principal of St Mary’s College, said Euan had been posthumously awarded college colours, a memorial service was held, a memorial bench would be placed in college grounds and money has been raised for his family’s chosen charity, the Royal Life Saving Society.

“Euan was an extremely popular student with a warm character and a great sense of humour. Euan was a genuine friend to many; he fully embraced university life and was a valued member of St Mary’s College community.”

Terry Collins, chair of the City Safety Group, said it was determined to do what it could to minimise the risks of further accidents.