The family of a Queensland teenager who went missing more than two years ago has finally learnt how he died.
Coroner Jane Bentley has found Kyle Coleman was shot and killed by his best friend James Coleman (no relation), 21, while the pair were on a hunting trip west of Mount Isa in February 2014.
Ms Bentley said the two young men were drunk at the time of the shooting.
"There is no evidence that James had any motive to harm Kyle," she said in her report, handed down on Friday.
"There is no evidence on which I could infer that Kyle's death was other than accidental."
Mr Coleman took his own life four days after Kyle's death.
Ms Bentley said he knew police would find out he had lied, so took his own life "rather than admit the truth or face the consequences that may follow from Kyle's death".
"The deaths of both these young men is a tragedy for their families and all of those who knew and loved them," she said.
Kyle's remains were left at the cattle station, but had since been moved or "disposed of by animals".
Mr Coleman was found to have burnt Kyle's belongings, including a swag, backpack and watch, at the site of the shooting.
Ms Bentley found police acted appropriately throughout the investigation but their efforts were hampered by the lies told by Mr Coleman.
* Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
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