Teen Dies After Falling from Sixth Floor of University Accommodation
A 19-year-old student tragically died after falling from a sixth-floor window at Swansea University following drug use
Swansea, Wales, Matthew Gilbert, University, Drugs, Accident
Swansea: It’s such a heartbreaking story. Two parents, Lindsay and Alan Gilbert, got a visit from the police one Sunday morning that changed their lives forever. Just months after their son Matthew started university, they were told he had fallen from a sixth-floor window.
Matthew, only 19, had just moved to Swansea University to study law and criminology. He was airlifted to the hospital after the fall, and his family was left in shock. They had just dropped him off after a short visit home, where he shared his dreams of becoming a police officer.
When the police arrived, they broke the news that Matthew was in surgery and in critical condition. His mom, Lindsay, couldn’t believe it. She thought, “How could he fall from the sixth floor and still be alive?” They rushed to the hospital, where they learned the extent of his injuries was devastating.
Matthew had lost both of his eyes and was in intensive care. The doctors warned them that the next 48 hours were crucial. His family stayed by his side, hoping for a miracle, but things took a turn for the worse. They were told he might not survive, and if he did, he could be in a vegetative state.
Sadly, after a few days of fighting, Matthew passed away. His family was heartbroken but grateful to have had each other during such a tough time. Lindsay shared how painful it is to think about the future without him. They’ve been trying to cope, but the pain doesn’t seem to lessen.
In the inquest, it was revealed that Matthew had taken recreational drugs before the fall. He was in a confused state and didn’t realize how high up he was when he forced the window open. The coroner ruled his death as accidental, but it’s a tragic reminder of the dangers of drug use.
Matthew was remembered as a bright and kind young man who always stood up for others. His family is now raising funds for the Wales Air Ambulance in his memory, hoping to help others in need.