Coroner rules desert hike deaths in UAE were due to misadventure

An inquest at Essex Coroner’s Court has ruled that the deaths of Cassius Newton, 34, and Aran Martinson, 33, were the result of misadventure during a recreational hike in the United Arab Emirates. The two men, who resided in Ras Al Khaimah, died on July 18 in the mountainous Wadi Naqab region.

Area coroner Michelle Brown stated that the deaths were caused by severe rising body temperatures and heat stress leading to organ failure. While ambient temperatures were recorded at approximately 40C (104F), the heat index was significantly higher within the canyons.

The court heard that the excursion was an intentional trip that did not require specialized equipment. Testimony indicated that Newton had been out the previous night and likely lacked sufficient sleep. Additionally, Newton’s wife had expressed concerns regarding the heat and requested that he avoid the excursion, while Martinson’s wife had sent messages warning of the extreme conditions.