A tragic incident involving 20-year-old Benjamin Kehoe, a student from Watford, has captured the attention of the community following an inquest that unveiled additional details surrounding his untimely death. Kehoe fell from a cliff at Welcombe Mouth beach in Devon on August 22, prompting a significant search and rescue operation.
The Incident
During a brief hearing at Exeter Coroners’ Court on October 21, it was confirmed that Kehoe fell approximately 15 meters into the sea. After the incident, Devon and Cornwall Police were notified, leading to a large-scale search operation involving multiple agencies. Helicopters from Devon, Cornwall, and Wales, alongside the RNLI and local police and paramedics, all joined the efforts. Unfortunately, the search was suspended on August 24 after no trace of Kehoe was found.
Discovery of the Body
Days later, on August 28, HM Coastguard informed the police about the discovery of a body at East Milford Farm, Hartland, near Bideford. While the cause of death is yet to be established, the coroner indicated that further investigations are required, with a full inquest hearing anticipated to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Community Mourning
Benjamin Kehoe, who had been living in Watford, leaves behind a community in deep mourning. Friends and family have expressed their heartbreak over the loss of a young life filled with promise and potential. Many have taken to social media to share their memories and condolences, reflecting on the impact Kehoe had on those around him.
Looking Ahead
As the inquest approaches, the community remains hopeful for answers that could provide clarity on the tragic events of that day. The coroner’s findings will be crucial in understanding what led to Kehoe’s fall and the circumstances that ensued.
The ongoing investigation highlights the complexities surrounding such incidents, as authorities aim to piece together the events leading to this heartbreaking loss. For those involved in the search and rescue operations, the outcome of the inquest may also bring a sense of closure as they reflect on their efforts to locate Kehoe.
In the meantime, discussions about safety at coastal locations and the importance of mental health awareness are likely to emerge, as communities seek to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
