Probe launched after man dies following a seizure at swimming pool in Belfast

A 24-YEAR-old man has died after suffering a seizure in a Belfast swimming pool, it has emerged.

The man is understood to have suffered from epilepsy and had a seizure in the swimming pool at the Olympia Leisure Centre.

He was a member of a disabled swimming group.

An investigation into Tuesday night’s incident is now under way and the Health and Safety Executive has been notified.

Staff at the centre carried out a rescue and resuscitation before emergency services attended the scene.

Following poolside treatment, paramedics found a pulse and he was placed in an ambulance.

However he suffered a second seizure on the way to hospital and died.

Ulster Unionist councillor Jeffrey Dudgeon said: “It’s the worst news a family could receive and indeed sad for the young man to lose his life at such a young age, it’s terrible.

“Staff at the leisure centre were left distressed by his death but they did their best in the tragic circumstances.”

Alliance councillor Kate Nicholl said: “My thoughts are with his family and his friends.

“There are no words — it’s just so tragic and he’s so young.”

Independent councillor Declan Boyle said: “My thoughts and prayers are with the immediate family at this sad time.

“This must have been alarming and shocking for those in the swimming pool.

“I want to praise the efforts of the first aiders and emergency services who helped as this tragedy happened.”

A full investigation into the man’s death has been launched and a detailed report will be provided to Belfast City Council.