Schoolboy died after ‘getting into difficulty in the River Taff’
A 13-YEAR-OLD from Cardiff who died in the River Taff had gone to play with friends before getting into difficulty, an inquest has heard.
Aryan Ghoniya was found near Melingriffith water pump in Whitchurch in the river on Tuesday, June 21 after a huge emergency services operation to find him.
At the inquest opening held at South Wales Coroner’s Court yesterday, a preliminary cause of death was given as “immersion.”
Conorer’s Officer Sharon Pugh said Aryan had gone to the River Taff with friends to play.
“Whilst in the river, he got into difficulty in the strong-flowing current,” the court heard.
“Friends contacted the emergency services and he was located by divers approximately 55 minutes later.”
Despite the efforts of the emergency services, Aryan was unable to be resuscitated and was declared dead at the scene.
On Wednesday Aryan’s family issued a new statement after his funeral, thanking those who attended for their support and expressing gratitude to the local community and police.
They also addressed the schoolboy’s friends, telling them to not blame anyone and cherish their memories of him.
As part of the moving statement, they said: “Finally, to all of Aryan’s friends, we thank you for being part of his short life, do not despair, do not blame anyone, his time here was short, cherish the memories you have of him, inspire yourself to become the person you want to be in life and make your family proud, as this is what Aryan would have wanted you to do.”
The inquest has been adjourned and a full hearing will take place at a later date that is yet to be set.