 The inquest was opened by Leonard Gorodkin at Manchester Coroner 's Court on 8 January 1993 . Dr William Lawler , a Home Office pathologist , testified that Capper had suffered 75 — 80 per cent burns consistent with having had petrol thrown over her and set alight , and that her chance of survival had been minimal . " It was clear from the outset that Suzanne was unlikely to survive . She suffered widespread burns that led to several complications internally . " Death was due to complications caused by these burns . The coroner said : " It is clear that this young girl must have suffered a great deal of pain and had no chance of survival . But she did fortunately survive long enough to give information which led to the people mentioned being charged with her death . " To Capper 's mother and stepfather the coroner said : " I offer you , not just on my behalf but on behalf of the whole nation , my very deepest sympathy and condolences at this tragic happening to your young daughter . " 
