Feb 10 • 07:43 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Mirror

Father and son, 12, fell to their death in Highland hiking tragedy

A father and his 12-year-old son tragically died during a hiking trip in Scotland after falling from a mountain peak.

Thomas Parry, 49, and his 12-year-old son Richard Parry tragically lost their lives while hiking up the Bidian nam Bian peak in Scotland on May 28, 2024. The pair, who hailed from Alsager in Cheshire, experienced a fatal fall while navigating the steep and rocky terrain that is characteristic of this particular peak. Their last contact was with the boy's mother, Gemma Parry, who received a call from Thomas early on the morning of the hike, informing her of their plans to return later that day.

After failing to return or update Gemma on their whereabouts, she reported them missing the following day, prompting a search operation by Police Scotland. The rescue teams located their bodies 100 metres apart the day after they were reported missing, highlighting the tragic nature of the incident. The inquest details reveal a chilling moment in which a family outing turned into a heartbreaking tragedy, drawing attention to the dangers posed by hiking in rugged terrains like Bidian nam Bian.

This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved in hiking and outdoor activities, particularly in mountainous regions where weather and terrain can change unexpectedly. It raises questions about safety precautions that hikers should consider before embarking on such journeys, especially in the UK where outdoor pursuits are popular. The deaths of Thomas and Richard not only mourn a personal loss for their family and friends but also provoke broader discussions regarding the safety measures taken during such excursions in the wilderness.

📡 Similar Coverage