Tragic Loss on Snowdon: A short-sighted student, John Aravinth, 20, sadly fell over 500ft to his death while climbing Snowdon. The Edinburgh University medicine student was attempting the climb with his family in May. As horrific winds hit speeds of 78mph, John bravely decided to continue the ascent solo despite poor visibility—his father and sister opted to turn back.
Two hours later, a distressed John called his dad saying he was lost. He made two 999 calls that got cut off, requesting mountain rescue help. Tragically, he couldn’t be reached again. A coastguard helicopter later found his body at Cwm Glas, where he’d succumbed to a head injury after plunging more than 150m.
At the inquest in Caernarfon, it was revealed that fogging glasses had impaired his already challenged eyesight. Strong winds and treacherous conditions likely caused his fall. North West Wales senior coroner, Kate Robertson, ruled the death an accident. She noted John was “exceptionally bright” and would be sorely missed.
Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this heartbreaking time.