Teenage Girl Dies After Attempting to Retrieve Dog from Cliff Edge

In a tragic incident, 18-year-old Keeleigh Plant lost her life while trying to rescue her dog from a cliff edge at Hope Cove, South Devon. An inquest revealed that Keeleigh, who was out for a walk with her boyfriend Oliver Griffiths, stepped over a low wooden railing to retrieve one of her cockapoo dogs named Bertie after it chased a rabbit. Witnesses reported hearing Keeleigh calling for her dog, and after a few moments, she fell approximately 100 feet onto a rocky beach below. Despite immediate assistance from bystanders and an air ambulance, she was pronounced dead at the scene due to multiple traumatic injuries. Oliver stated he had not previously visited that area, while Keeleigh was familiar with the coastal path, having walked it with her sister before. The coroner recorded an accidental death, emphasizing the inherent dangers of cliffs and the tendency of individuals to prioritize their pets' safety over their own. Keeleigh was preparing to start a gap year and attend university, having shown promise as a student and a valued member of her community. The community mourns a life lost so young, with family members highlighting her kind nature and passion for animals. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks that accompany outdoor adventures, especially for those accompanied by pets. Testimonies from witnesses corroborate that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the fall, and this tragic accident appears to stem from a moment of instinct and care, often seen in pet owners. As we reflect on Keeleigh's story, it underscores the importance of being cautious in risky environments such as cliff edges, no matter how familiar one may feel with the surroundings.