**Swansea Shopkeeper Tragically Dies Rescuing Children at Brecon Beacons Waterfall**
A man from Swansea has died after bravely rescuing two young members of his family from dangerous waters at a popular beauty spot. Mohananeethan “Mohan” Muruganantharajah, a 27-year-old shopkeeper and qualified pilot, drowned at the Sgwd y Pannwr waterfall in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, a tragedy which has left his community and loved ones in mourning.
Mr Muruganantharajah was visiting the scenic area near Ystradfellte with extended family on 1 September 2023, hoping to enjoy a peaceful outing together. According to statements presented to Pontypridd Coroner’s Court, their visit began with excitement and leisure as the family explored one of Wales’ best-loved natural attractions. The weather that day was reportedly pleasant, which prompted several members of the group, including children, to enter the cool water beneath the falls.
However, what began as a joyful family outing quickly turned into a desperate situation. When some of the children got into difficulty in the water, Mohananeethan did not hesitate to leap to their aid. According to Coroner Patricia Morgan, he managed to get the young girls—later confirmed to be his nieces—safely away from immediate danger. Tragically, moments later, Muruganantharajah himself was swept under the water, caught by a ledge from which he could not free himself.
Emergency services responded rapidly following a distress call at around 4:40pm, deploying a multi-agency rescue effort that included local police, the fire service, mountain rescue teams, and specialist units such as the hazardous area response team. The Wales Air Ambulance and UK Air Rescue Team attended, landing their aircraft in nearby fields as the search was launched.
Despite the best efforts of all involved, the conditions at the site proved challenging. Specialist equipment, including underwater cameras, was used to search beneath the falls. The body of Mr Muruganantharajah was located at around 7pm, but due to difficult underwater conditions, recovery was postponed until the following morning. Specialist divers then worked to safely recover him, confirming the drowning as the cause of death.
At the inquest, coroner Patricia Morgan concluded the case as an accidental death, offering heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family. She emphasised that Mr Muruganantharajah’s actions had undoubtably saved the lives of his nieces, at the devastating cost of his own life. His family is currently being supported by specialist officers from Dyfed-Powys Police.
News of Mohananeethan Muruganantharajah’s selflessness has resonated in Swansea and beyond. Locals who knew him through his off-licence business and his reputation as a qualified pilot have shared tributes commending his courage and deep commitment to his family. One family friend described him as “a kind-hearted soul, always putting others first”.
Authorities continue to caution visitors about the unpredictable dangers present in natural water sites, especially during spells of good weather when people are more likely to swim or paddle. This harrowing event serves as an urgent reminder of the risks involved, as well as the importance of vigilance and preparation.
The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park remains a magnet for walkers and families, with its array of waterfalls and dramatic landscapes drawing thousands of tourists each year. However, officials stress that even expert swimmers can be caught unawares by strong currents, slippery rocks, and submerged hazards.
As Mr Muruganantharajah’s family comes to terms with their loss, the wider community is left reflecting on his bravery and sacrifice. The memory of his heroism at Sgwd y Pannwr will endure as a poignant reminder of the risks taken, and the lives protected, in moments of unimaginable crisis.