Tributes paid to two young ‘best friends’ found dead in Welsh mountain range

Tributes Paid to Two Young Hikers Found Dead on Yr Wyddfa

Monday 23 February 2026 

Tributes have been paid to two young hikers who were found dead in the Eryri mountain range.

Jayden Long, 19, and Eddie Hill, 20, both from Norfolk, were discovered on Yr Wyddfa — also known as Snowdon — on Thursday. Concerns about their welfare had been raised with police the previous day, prompting a large-scale search operation in challenging winter conditions.

‘Best Friends’ Who Loved the Outdoors

In a series of social media tributes, family and friends described the pair as inseparable and said they died “doing something they loved”.

Jayden’s younger sister, Jodie Long, said she could not put into words how difficult the loss had been, describing him as an “amazing, kind and caring big brother” who would be “forever missed”.

His aunt, Stephanie Jolly, wrote that he had been “just figuring out life, following your dreams and doing something you loved with someone you loved,” adding that she felt fortunate to have shared many treasured memories with him.

Eddie’s brother, Harry Hill, described him as his “big beautiful” and beloved older sibling, saying the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss. He said Eddie had “such big plans for his future” and would be missed dearly.

Friends also expressed devastation, remembering the two young men as “the most amazing and beautiful people” and saying they had always imagined growing old together.

Police Statement

In a statement, North Wales Police confirmed the bodies were located and recovered during coordinated search efforts.

“Tragically, the bodies of the two men were located and recovered as part of these co-ordinated search efforts. Both have now been formally identified, and their families have been informed,” the force said.

The deaths have deeply affected their families, friends and the wider community, with many sharing heartfelt messages online in remembrance of the two young men.