AN inquest into the death of teenager Kimberley Bage was opened yesterday.
The 16-year-old was found with multiple stab wounds at her mother's home in Troutpool Close, Hartlepool, two weeks ago.
Her parents, Christopher Bage, 38, and Paula Hanley, 31, attended the inquest at Hartlepool Civic Centre.
Coroner Gordon Hetherington opened and adjourned the inquest to allow for police investigations. Mr Bage, a welding inspector, confirmed that the victim was his daughter.
During yesterday's brief proceedings, the coroner also released Kimberley's body to the family so that funeral arrangements can be made.
Kimberley, a former pupil of St Hilda's School, in Hartlepool, was described by friends as a well-liked and bright youngster.
* Paul Andrew Knappett, 29, of Wentworth Grove, Hartlepool, has been charged with Kimberley's murder and will stand trial later this year.
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