Daredevil Rescued After Serious Tombstoning Accident in Wales

A tombstoning enthusiast was airlifted to a trauma centre after suffering significant injuries in a jumping accident at Llyn Gwynant, a popular beauty spot near Beddgelert, Wales. The incident took place on March 10, 2024, when the man jumped from a cliff edge intending to engage in the extreme sport. Unfortunately, he leapt from an incorrect location, resulting in a severe impact that left him unconscious.

The individual was accompanied by two friends who had planned to dive into the water from a small cliff at Eryri Lake. However, the first jumper miscalculated his leap, crashing onto a rocky shelf before falling into the lake. The impact caused him to lose consciousness and fracture both legs.

Fortunately, two kayakers who were nearby witnessed the accident. They quickly paddled to the scene, retrieved the injured man, and called emergency services by dialling 999. Their prompt action was critical, as the man would likely have drowned without their intervention.

After reaching the shoreline, the kayakers received assistance from the proprietor of the Llyn Gwynant campsite. He transported the injured man to his vessel, where he awaited further medical help. A Wales Air Ambulance was dispatched to the scene, and the man was subsequently flown to a trauma centre in Stoke.

Emergency Response and Rescue Operations

The response involved multiple emergency services, including the Coastguard helicopter and mountain rescue teams. A representative from the Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Team provided details on the rescue efforts, stating:

“Two men were planning some tombstoning from the crags on the far side of the lake. The first man leapt from the wrong place, hitting a rock ledge before plunging into the water, unconscious with two broken legs.”

The representative emphasized the cooperation between different rescue teams: “We worked with Llanberis MRT and all emergency services at Llyn Gwynant by Beddgelert in this incident. The Coastguard helicopter was on site but were concerned that their downdraught may blow the second man from the crag. He was brought up by the two MRT’s.”

The representative also noted the seriousness of the situation, highlighting how the man was “lucky to survive” given the circumstances.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with tombstoning, even in scenic locations like Llyn Gwynant. Those engaging in such activities are urged to exercise caution and ensure they are jumping from safe and appropriate locations.