National: Man who died following Croagh Patrick fall donates body to medical science

A man who died following a fall on Croagh Patrick was commended for his 'selfless act' to offer his body for the advancement of medical science.

Pat O'Mahony (78, pictured) of Harbour Hill, Westport and formerly of Dalkey in Dublin died in Mayo University Hospital on November 19, 2023 after he suffered a traumatic head injury following a fall on Croagh Patrick two days earlier.

The inquest into his death which took place in Swinford Courthouse yesterday was expedited to allow Mr O'Mahony's body to be released to the University of Galway for medical science.

Dr Tamás Nemeth, Consultant Pathologist who performed the post mortem into his death, stated in his report that his legacy will continue through the knowledge gained from his contribution to medical science.

“It is deeply commendable that he offered his body for research,” Dr Nemth stated in his report. “This selfless act contributes to the advancement of medical science. His contribution will aid in the education of medical professionals and researchers, potentially saving or improving countless lives in the future.

His generosity in making such a decision reflects a profound commitment to the welfare of others, and his legacy will continue through the knowledge gained from his contribution,” he concluded.

Following the fall on Croagh Patrick, Mr O' Mahony was airlifted to Mayo University Hospital where a CT scan showed he suffered a sustained brain injury that was not compatible with life.

It was decided that his condition did not permit his transfer to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin for further specialised treatment as his chances of survival would have been limited.

The post mortem found that the cause of death was due to a traumatic brain haemorrhage as a result of a base of skull fracture due to a fall.

'Great form'
Mary Kilroy told the inquest she was working in the Helm Bar in Westport on November 17 last when she met Mr O'Mahony at 7.30am. She said he was in great form and informed her he was going to climb Croagh Patrick. She said she advised against it as the weather was not good but he stated he was an experienced climber.

The inquest heard that Nelius Fitzpatrick from Kinsale in Co Cork was hiking on Croagh Patrick when he came across a person lying on the ground. He said he along with others provided assistance and comforted Mr O'Mahony. He said Mr O'Mahony attempted to speak but apart from a discernible 'Jesus Christ' no other words were interpretable.

Coroner for the District of Mayo, Patrick O'Connor recorded a verdict of accidental death and that Mr O'Mahony's showed the dangers which can occur while climbing Croagh Patrick.

“People do fall unfortunately on Croagh Patrick and do suffer injury and people do pass away. It is important that when people are climbing that they are aware of the conditions and weather but also of their own medical condition,” he said.

He echoed Dr Nemeth's comments about his decision to research his body for medical science and commended him for his selfless act.

Family members who attended the inquest thanked the staff in Mayo University Hospital for their compassion they showed to them and to Mr O'Mahony and for allowing him to die with dignity.