A tragic incident occurred when a college student, who was in her final year, lost her life in a rock climbing accident alongside a friend.
Eve McCarthy, a 21-year-old from Ireland, tragically fell 500 feet to her death on January 10 while on a holiday at a renowned tourist location near Malaga, Spain.
The physiology student from University College Dublin was exploring the famed Caminito del Rey walkway, known for its breathtaking views of the Spanish countryside.
While navigating an area familiar to rock climbers called the ‘Swiss sector’, near the ‘Arabic Staircase’, it is believed that McCarthy and her male companion inadvertently deviated from the main path.
Upon realizing, they attempted to make their way down the rocky landscape, which is when the unfortunate accident happened.
As they descended the mountainside, both lost their footing and fell into a ravine, according to McCarthy’s friend, who spoke to the local police.
Although both fell, her climbing partner survived by clinging to a rocky outcrop that was partially covered with bushes, whereas McCarthy was unable to catch herself.
Emergency services were contacted shortly after 7 pm on Friday, and McCarthy’s body was retrieved after falling approximately 500 feet.
Tributes have since been pouring in for McCarthy, who was employed at The Kings Inn in Dalkey, a coastal village southeast of Dublin.
On Facebook, the pub shared, “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the sad death of our colleague & friend Eve McCarthy.
“Eve was a big part of The King’s Inn family bringing so much joy and laughter with her fun loving way of life. Eve had great wit and was always so bubbly with a beautiful smile.
“We will miss Eve more than words can express. RIP Eve.”
“Absolutely heartbreaking news a beautiful person with a fantastic personality and cheeky smile!! The kings lit up when she worked. Gone far too soon. RIP Eve,” one individual commented on the social media post.
Another customer expressed their condolences, writing, “Beautiful girl so polite and always smiling devastating that she’s taken so soon. Condolences to her family friends and all the staff at Kings.”
For those experiencing bereavement and seeking confidential support, please contact GrieveWell at (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].