Stockport couple drowned in Majorca flash floods, inquest told

Stockport couple drowned in Majorca flash floods, inquest told

A tragic incident occurred while a young couple was on a hiking holiday in Majorca, resulting in their untimely deaths in a flash flood, a recent inquest revealed. Alexander Barrett, a climbing instructor and lifeguard at 32 years old, attempted to assist his partner, Sarah Thompson, 26, when a sudden surge of water overwhelmed them as they descended a canyon with a group of fellow hikers. Tragically, both individuals were carried away by the floodwaters, with Ms. Thompson’s body recovered the following day by Spanish search and rescue teams on September 4, 2024. Mr. Barrett’s body was found two days later in the Torrent de Pareis canyon located in the Tramuntana mountains.

The families of the deceased shared fond memories of their loved ones. Peter Thompson, Ms. Thompson’s father, described his daughter as always having a beaming smile. She was an accomplished fell runner who represented Cumbria in national competitions and held a degree in photography from Manchester Metropolitan University. Likewise, Paul Rodman, Mr. Barrett’s father, expressed how his son thoroughly enjoyed life and the great outdoors, whether hiking or surfing. He mentioned that their friends and family took inspiration from Alex, endeavoring to embody his adventurous spirit.

The ill-fated couple embarked on their trip to Majorca with a group of friends who shared a passion for hiking and climbing. Luke Weaver, a friend of Mr. Barrett and a climbing instructor at an indoor climbing center in Stockport, emphasized the mutual enthusiasm the group had for such activities. They had anticipated a challenging hike lasting three to four hours, which they believed was well within their capabilities. Despite the inclement weather forecast, they proceeded with the hike on September 3, remaining unaware of the impending flash flood that would ultimately claim the lives of Ms. Thompson and Mr. Barrett.

Witnesses recounted the harrowing events that unfolded as the flash flood struck the group, leaving them with no means of communication or escape. The deafening roar of the water drowned out any attempts at dialogue, as individuals struggled to secure themselves amidst the chaos. Despite the valiant efforts of Mr. Barrett to aid his partner and the others, they were all swept away by the unforgiving current. Survivors, who sustained minor injuries, were eventually rescued via helicopter airlift from the gorge. The assistant coroner for Manchester South, Jyoti Gill, concluded that both Ms. Thompson and Mr. Barrett tragically succumbed to accidental drowning due to the overwhelming floodwaters, unable to reach safety in time

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