New police inquiry into Hillsborough disaster ordered

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Liverpool fans hold up a mosiac in tribute to the Hillsborough disaster before the Barclays Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield on September 23, 2012 in Liverpool, England.

A new inquiry into the Hillsborough disaster has been ordered by Home secretary Theresa May.

The Hillsborough disaster occurred on the 15th of April, 1989 at the Hillsborough stadium in Sheffield in an FA cup semi-final match against Nottingham Forest and 96 Liverpool fans lost their lives as a result.

Home Secretary Theresa May said:

“I am determined to see a swift and thorough response to the findings of the Hillsborough Panel to deliver justice for the 96 football fans who died and the families who have fought so hard on their behalf.”

Former Durham Chief Constable Jon Stoddart will lead the inquiry and the following were his reactions after learning about the new assignment:

“I am aware of the great significance and personal responsibility which comes with leading this criminal investigation.

“My first priority is to meet with as many of the families as possible and to establish a working open relationship with them throughout the investigation.

“I have held a number of meetings already and have been struck by the families’ humility and steadfast determination to see justice delivered for their loved ones.

“My role is to ensure that we determine exactly what happened in the lead-up to and on the day of the disaster and establish where any culpability lies.”