A 29-year-old man has died in a swimming pool accident in Spain while attending a friend’s wedding. Damian Casey from Dungannon was regarded one of the country's best hurlers.
He played for Eoghan Ruadh GAA hurling club and at inter-county level for the Tyrone senior hurling team. Ulster University Gaelic Academy tweeted: “Our deepest sympathy goes to them, and our focus must now be on providing the support and comfort that will be so badly needed.
"Damian Casey was a special gift to Tyrone and to hurling. We were the richer for his presence and are the poorer for his passing.”
READ MORE:
“We are profoundly saddened to learn of the tragic death of Damian, esteemed graduate of UU and Fitzgibbon hurler. We extend our deepest sympathy and offer our sincere condolences to the entire family circle at this very sad time.”
The Gaelic Players Association tweeted: “Players across Ireland are devastated for the family and friends of Damian Casey and for all in Dungannon hurling club and Tyrone GAA. Damian stood out as a person and leader. On the pitch he was a magician of rare skill. He was one of us. He was among the best of us.”
Sinn Fein Stormont leader Michelle O’Neill tweeted: “The community in Dungannon is heartbroken with news of the tragic death of Damian Casey, a fantastic hurler. Thinking of his devastated parents and sisters, his family and friends, his teammates and all those who loved him.”
Read more of today's top stories here
Read next:
-
Child suffers horrific second-degree burns after touching 'Britain's most dangerous plant'
-
Doctors said I had anxiety - it turned out to be something much more sinister
-
I started out selling nuts to pubs with a mate. Three years on we've made £10m
-
Harry Styles wows fans with emotional homecoming at Emirates Trafford gig
