by Keyan Milanian

An inquest into the death of a popular teenager found in the River Medway has recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Sonny Pataria, who lived with his father in Gravesend but spent much of his time with friends and family in Medway, celebrated his 18th birthday just days before his body was found in the river at Gun Wharf on February 11.

He had been at a friend's wedding reception the night before.

An inquest was held at County Hall, Maidstone, today.

Speaking at the inquest, ds Shaun Pollard, showed CCTV footage of Sonny walking outside Commissioners House, where the reception was being held, and then crawling along a wall beside the river near Gun Wharf.

He told north Kent coroner Roger Sykes in his opinion there was no reason to suspect foul play and that Sonny had been ‘very happy’ on the day of the reception.

Also speaking at the inquest was pathologist Dr David Rouse who read from a report prepared by colleague Dr Michael Heath.

Dr Rouse said there was no evidence of external injuries and said, according to blood and urine samples, Sonny was just over three times the legal drink driving limit.

Mr Sykes recorded a verdict of accidental death due to drowning and a contributing factor as severe alcohol intoxication.

He said: “This is both desperately tragic but also very clearly nothing more than an accident.

“Instead of leaving through the main exit he found himself in an area where he was unfamiliar with no clear path as to his way forward.

“Secondly, his sense or perception of his own safety would have been affected and therefore he may well have not realised the risk he was taking in being where he was on a narrow ledge.

“I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

“A picture has been painted of a very happy young man, it is desperately tragic that he put himself in danger.”