THE independent panel trawling through previously-hidden Hillsborough documents will examine what happened after 3.15pm on the day of the disaster for the first time.
Many bereaved families and survivors believe their loved ones were still alive after the cut-off time imposed by Sheffield coroner Dr Stefan Popper in the initial 1991 inquest – and could have been saved had they been given proper medical assistance.
A doctor – Ed Walker – came forward in 1997 to say some victims were still breathing after 4pm.
Justice chiefs confirmed the Hillsborough Independent Panel, which has been studying papers since being convened by the government a year ago, will “analyse all documents” relating to the 1989 tragedy.
Campaign groups labelled the breakthrough “a giant step forward” to seeking justice for the 96 Reds fans killed on the Leppings Lane terrace.
The exclusion of post-3.15pm evidence had until now prevented any meaningful inquiry into the emergency response.
