AN inquest into the death of a man who fell off a boat in Poole Harbour has been suspended after criminal charges were brought.

Extensive searches were carried out in May last year when 24-year-old David Haw fell into the water after a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) collided with a channel marker.

Just under two weeks after going missing, Mr Haw’s body was found in the water in Poole Harbour.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident was launched and, following enquiries, a 21-year-old man from Southampton was charged with gross negligence manslaughter.

He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Monday, June 19.

Senior coroner for Dorset, Rachael Griffin, opened the inquest into Mr Haw’s death on Thursday, November 24.

A further hearing was held on Friday, June 2, at Bournemouth Town Hall. However, due to the recent legal action, the inquest was suspended pending the result of the criminal investigation.