TRAGEDY OF BOY (14) SUDDEN DEATH STUNS SOUTH ARMAGH
TRIBUTES have been paid to a teenager whose sudden death has devastated a south Armagh community.
Patrick Quinn, from Camlough, a Year 11 pupil at St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook, passed away on Friday. It is understood he took his own life.
Patrick’s funeral mass takes place today at noon at St Malachy’s Church, Carrickcruppen.
Rev Sean Larkin, offered his condolences to all Patrick’s family and friends.
“Patrick was a very fine young man, full of energy and good at sport,” he said. “It is so tragic.”
St Paul’s High School opened its doors at the weekend for friends of the popular teenager to gather in his memory. Staff were also made available to talk to students.
“The sudden death of our esteemed Year 11 pupil, Patrick Quinn, has shocked and saddened us all,” a statement from the school read.
Patrick was a keen sportsman, with local Gaelic clubs among those paying heartfelt tributes.
The Craobh Rua hurling club, where he played as a full back, opened its doors over the weekend for people to share their memories of Patrick and offer support to the family.
It revealed it had cancelled all club activities until further notice, including a cycle event yesterday, as a mark of respect following the sudden passing of its “esteemed under-age player Patrick Quinn”.
“The committee, players and club members wish to pass on their sincere condolences to the Quinn Family and their extended relatives and friends,” said a spokesman.
Carrickcruppen St Patrick’s GAA Club also opened its doors yesterday for people to gather and remember Patrick. “The Executive Committee, coaches, fellow players, members and friends of Carrickcruppen GAA Club have been deeply saddened at the sudden and untimely passing of our U-16 player Patrick Quinn,” said a club spokesman.
“Patrick followed on with the tradition of the Quinn and Boyle families by representing Carrickcruppen. Both families have been generous sponsors to our club down throughout the years.
“As a mark of respect, all club activity has been postponed until further notice.
“We offer our sincerest sympathy to the Quinn and Boyle families during these sad times. May Patrick rest in peace.”
Among the many comments on the club’s Facebook page was one from Anthony Bennett, who wrote: “Had the pleasure of managing Paddy for a couple of years at under-age level and always would empty the tank and give you everything. My heart is broken today. God bless and may God take care of you.”
Friends also paid tribute online. Sarah Birt wrote: “RIP Pat- rick gone but never forgotten. Class will never be the same without you.”
Maria McGuinness wrote: “RIP Patrick. Such a little gentleman. Thoughts and sincere condolences to the Quinn family and friends at this very difficult time.”
In a statement, a PSNI spokeswoman said: “Police received a report of the sudden death of a young boy in the south Armagh area on Friday, September 23. The death is not being treated as suspicious.”
Lifeline is a crisis response 24-hour helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair. It can be contacted on 0808 808 8000