Irish mountaineer killed by lightning on Kilimanjaro

An Irish mountaineer has been killed by lightning while leading an expedition of Irish climbers up Africa’s highest peak.

Ian McKeever, 42, from Lough Dan, Co Wicklow, was heading the ascent of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania when lightning hit the group.

A number of people were affected but Mr McKeever died from his injuries. His death was confirmed last night in a statement on behalf of his family and his group, Kilimanjaro Achievers.

“It is with deep regret, that we, Ian’s family, fiancée Anna, and friends, advise of his sudden death on Kilimanjaro doing what he loved best,” it said.