Tributes paid to boy (10) who died on family outing

A 10-YEAR-OLD boy who died following a family outing to McDonald’s has been remembered as a “popular and friendly” young child.

Maleek Lawal (10) became ill near the Moore Street Mall in Dublin’s north-inner city last Friday while in the company of his mother and siblings.

He had visited a McDonald’s restaurant in the Ilac shopping centre earlier that day, but collapsed shortly before 6.15pm near Parnell Street.

An ambulance was called and it took Maleek to the nearby Temple Street Hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical staff he was later pronounced dead.

Gardaí from Store Street station are investigating the incident for the purposes of preparing a report for the Dublin Coroner’s Court.

The principal of the school he attended, St Audeon’s National School, paid tribute to the young pupil.

“Maleek (10) was a fifth class student in St Audoen’ s National School. He was a very popular, friendly and kind little boy with a great smile. Maleek loved sport, in particular football.

“We are devastated by his sudden death. He will be greatly missed by staff and students alike,” principal Eilish Meagher said.

“We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

“We have engaged the assistance of the National Educational Psychological Service to support our staff and students at this difficult time.”

Iveagh Trust FC, a local soccer club that Maleek joined with his brother just last month, also paid tribute to the young boy.

“We are shocked and deeply saddened at the news of the passing of one of our new players,” the club’s secretary Brendan D’Arcy said. “Maleek was just starting out with our club with his brother. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Maleek’s family, friends and clubmates.”

The young footballer was expected to play his first game for the club tomorrow morning. The club has called off all of its scheduled games this weekend as a mark of respect.

Maleek was the oldest of three children and lived on Parnell Road, Dolphin’s Barn, with his mother and siblings.

In a statement, the restaurant said: “Management and staff wish to extend their deepest sympathies to the family involved.”

He was a very popular, friendly and kind little boy with a great smile. Maleek loved sport, particularly football