Hero pilot dies after trying to save two children from a Welsh river

Hero pilot, 27, dies after trying to save two children from a river at a Welsh beauty spot

  • Both children were pulled from the water but he had disappeared from view

A hero pilot has died after trying to save two children from a river at a Welsh beauty spot.

Mohan Muruganantharajah, 27, raced into the river in the Brecon Beacons in a bid to save the two youngsters – but tragically got into difficulty himself. 

Dyfed Powys Police said they were called to Sgwd Y Pannwr waterfall, Ystradfellte, at approximately 4.40pm on Friday. 

Both children were pulled from the water but Mohan had disappeared from view.

Rescue teams were called to the scene but Mohan – who had a ‘never ending smile’ according to friends – could not be saved. 

Rescue teams were called to the scene but pilot Mohan could not be saved

Rescue teams were called to The Sgwd Y Pannwr waterfall in the Brecon Beacons

Police, fire crews, mountain rescue teams, a rescue helicopter and an air ambulance attended the scene.

Officers said the qualified pilot’s body was located using underwater cameras and was then recovered the following day. 

A spokesperson said: ‘A multi-agency response was commenced with representation from the police, fire service, mountain rescue, HART and both the UK Air Rescue Team and the Wales Air Ambulance landing their aircrafts nearby.

‘At shortly after 7pm the fire service located the body of 27-year-old Mohananeethan Murigaqnantharajah in the water with an underwater camera.

‘Unfortunately, due to conditions at the site, recovery was not possible that evening, and specialist divers were brought in the following morning.

‘His family is being supported by specialist officers.’

A tribute from Mohan’s badminton club in Swansea said: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Mohan.

Hero pilot Mohan Muruganantharajah (pictured), 27, has died after trying to save two children from a river in the Brecon Beacons

‘He touched the lives of so many and brought warmth and love to all who knew him with his never ending smile.

‘Thank you for your love, support, and compassion during this challenging time.’

The Sgwd Y Pannwr waterfall in the Brecon Beacons – now known as Bannau Brycheiniog – is popular with walkers and photographers for its cascading falls dropping from almost 40ft high.

It also known as the ‘Fall of the Fuller’ and is situated on the Afon Mellte river.

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