Tragedy on Mount Snowdon: Medical Student's Fatal Fall
A 20-year-old medical student died after falling more than 500 feet on Mount Snowdon after continuing his ascent alone in deteriorating weather conditions, an inquest has heard. John Aravinth, from Horsham in West Sussex, was described as an 'exceptionally bright' and experienced hillwalker.
Fateful Decisions in Deteriorating Conditions
The tragedy unfolded on May 26 when Mr Aravinth attempted to climb the 3,560ft (1085m) mountain via the Llanberis Path with his family. Despite windy, rainy, and cloudy conditions, the confident young explorer decided to press on for the summit after his father and sister turned back, deeming it too dangerous.
Two hours later, the Edinburgh University student called his father to report he was lost. He made two attempts to call 999, with the second emergency call capturing a 'distressed' Mr Aravinth requesting mountain rescue before the connection dropped. Police noted considerable wind noise in the background.
Desperate Search in 'Beyond Atrocious' Weather
The subsequent search operation faced extreme challenges. Rescuers encountered 78mph gusts on Snowdon's summit, with conditions described as 'beyond atrocious'. The coroner, Kate Robertson, noted the significant risk of being blown off a ridge.
More than 35 rescuers participated in an 18-hour mission in what was described as 'serious and dangerous' weather. The search was suspended overnight before Mr Aravinth's body was eventually spotted by a coastguard rescue helicopter crew in Cwm Glas, a valley north-east of the secondary peak Garnedd Ugain.
Coroner's Findings and Tribute
The inquest heard that Mr Aravinth was extremely shortsighted and had difficulties with his vision due to his glasses misting up. North West Wales senior coroner Kate Robertson concluded he had likely reached the summit but became 'disorientated' during his descent.
'He's likely taken a fall due to strong winds or loss of footing in treacherous weather conditions,' she stated. The fall of more than 150 metres resulted in a fatal head injury.
Recording a verdict of accidental death, Ms Robertson paid tribute: 'John was clearly exceptionally bright. The world will be a poorer place without him by the way he's been described to me.' She also acknowledged the 'significant efforts' of the mountain rescue team and emergency services.
