Two cousins drowned after they were swept off rocks by large waves off the Devon coast, an inquest has heard. Jordan O'Rourke, 24, of no fixed abode, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services, while Luke Keyte-Rigby, 24, of Willowfield Road, in Torquay, was taken to Torbay Hospital where he later died. The inquest at Exeter Coroner's Court heard from eye-witness Daniel Hoare who said he saw the men being swept off rocks at Oddicombe Beach in Torquay on 27 May 2023. Mr Hoare, who alerted rescuers, said the waves were 20ft (6m) higher than the tall rocks which the men were climbing on. The coroner recorded misadventure conclusions. Mr Hoare told police at the scene: "They climbed to the tallest part of the rocks. "The wave knocked the first man into the water, he was screaming loudly and waving his arms." He said another wave then knocked Mr Keyte-Rigby into the water. The inquest heard officers from Devon and Cornwall Police recovered empty beer cans, vodka bottles and cannabis from the scene. Area coroner, Alison Longhorn, said the cousins spent time together socialising at various places around Torbay but had not told any family members their plans for that weekend. Mark O'Rourke also told the hearing that his brother was not a good swimmer. Toxicology tests showed Mr O'Rourke had taken cocaine and cannabis and drunk alcohol beforehand and Mr Keyte-Rigby had also consumed alcohol and taken cocaine. The inquest heard this could have affected their cognitive behaviour. Follow BBC Devon onX,FacebookandInstagram. Send your story ideas tospotlight@bbc.co.uk.
Cousins drowned after being swept off rocks
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Cousins drown after being swept off rocks by large waves at Torquay beach"
Bbc News
6.9
TruthLens AI Summary
Two cousins tragically drowned after being swept off rocks by large waves at Oddicombe Beach in Torquay on May 27, 2023. The inquest, held at Exeter Coroner's Court, revealed that Jordan O'Rourke, 24, was pronounced dead at the scene, while his cousin Luke Keyte-Rigby, also 24, was transported to Torbay Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Eyewitness Daniel Hoare recounted the harrowing scene, stating that the men were climbing on rocks that were significantly lower than the waves, which were estimated to be 20 feet high. Mr. Hoare alerted emergency services after witnessing the first wave knock Mr. O'Rourke into the water, prompting his desperate cries for help. Shortly after, a second wave also swept Mr. Keyte-Rigby off the rocks, leading to their tragic drowning.
The inquest further examined the circumstances surrounding the incident, noting the presence of empty beer cans, vodka bottles, and cannabis at the scene. Area coroner Alison Longhorn concluded the investigation with a ruling of misadventure. It was disclosed that the cousins had spent the day socializing in Torbay without informing family members of their weekend plans. Additionally, testimony from Mark O'Rourke revealed that his brother was not a proficient swimmer. Toxicology tests indicated that both men had consumed alcohol and cocaine, with the substances potentially impairing their judgment and behavior at the time of the incident. This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by large waves and the importance of safety when near coastal areas.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The report details a tragic incident involving two cousins who drowned after being swept off rocks by large waves in Torquay, Devon. This news story captures the attention of the community, raising questions about safety and the circumstances leading to the incident.
Purpose of the Article
The article serves to inform the public about the drowning incident, emphasizing the risks associated with climbing on rocky coastlines, particularly during rough weather conditions. It also highlights the potential influence of alcohol and drug use on the behaviors of the individuals involved, which could serve as a cautionary tale for others.
Public Perception
By detailing the events leading up to the drowning, the report may create a perception of recklessness associated with the victims, particularly with mentions of their consumption of alcohol and drugs. This could spark discussions about personal responsibility and safety in dangerous environments, influencing how similar incidents are viewed in the future.
Omissions in the Narrative
While the article provides important details about the incident, it may downplay broader issues such as the need for increased safety measures at public beaches. The focus on the individuals’ behaviors might overshadow systemic factors that contribute to such tragedies, such as the adequacy of warning signs or lifeguard presence.
Manipulative Aspects
The focus on substance use could lead to a stigma against individuals who engage in recreational drinking or drug use, portraying them as irresponsible. This framing may distract from the environmental factors and the inherent dangers of the location, suggesting a level of moral judgment rather than a comprehensive analysis of the incident.
Truthfulness of the Report
The article appears to be fact-based, relying on eyewitness accounts and coroner findings. However, the selective emphasis on certain details, such as the presence of drugs and alcohol, raises questions about the completeness of the narrative.
Community Impact
The story could lead to heightened awareness about safety at beaches and the potential dangers posed by alcohol and drugs. It may also prompt discussions about the need for better public safety measures in coastal areas, impacting local policies and community initiatives.
Target Audience
This report likely appeals to a broad audience, including local residents, safety advocates, and families who frequent beaches. It aims to resonate with those concerned about safety and responsible behavior in recreational settings.
Market and Economic Considerations
While the incident may not have a direct impact on stock markets, it could affect local businesses, particularly those related to tourism and beach activities. Increased safety concerns might deter visitors, impacting the local economy.
Relevance to Global Issues
Though the incident itself is localized, it highlights global themes of safety, personal responsibility, and the impacts of substance use in recreational settings. These are issues relevant to many communities around the world.
Potential Use of AI in Writing
It is possible that AI tools could have been used to assist in drafting the report, especially in organizing information and formatting. However, the narrative style and emotional undertones suggest a human touch, likely reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Conclusion
In sum, the article provides a factual account of a tragic event while also opening up discussions on safety and personal responsibility. The focus on substance use may sway public perception, framing the incident in a specific light. Overall, the report is credible but may simplify complex issues surrounding safety at beaches.