The wider Castlewellan community has been left heartbroken after the death of a popular young man.
Marc Quinn, 18, died after a road traffic collision on the Newcastle Road in Co Down in the early hours of this Sunday.
The young GAA player died following the crash which happened shortly before 1.30am involving a Black Kia Sportage. He was treated at the scene, however died in hospital a short time later.
Aughlisnafin GAC shared an emotional tribute to Marc, who has been with them from he was a child.
They said: "It is with a very heavy heart that we bring news of the passing of senior footballer Marc Quinn RIP. Son of our esteemed secretary Jenny and former player Garry, brother of our senior footballer Ruairi and U15 footballer Ryan.
"Marc was an extremely talented and committed footballer for Aughlisnafin GAC from a five-year-old playing at every grade and was looking forward to making his senior debut this season. Marc won U12.5 & U14 Championship medals and captained the U14 East Down league winning side.
"He has also represented his school team St Malachys HS with distinction and was part of the Down GAA U14 and U15 Development squads.
"He also enjoyed his time with Baile an Locha minors and also a time with our friends and neighbours Liatroim Fontenoys to play U17 football in his own grade. He made many friends wherever he played. He will be sorely missed by all his club mates and friends both in and without the club. Such an unassuming and polite young man who was extremely well thought of both within our club and wherever he went."
The club went on to say that words cannot begin to convey their heartbreak for Marc's parents Garry and Jenny, for his brothers Ruairi and Ryan, and their extended family circle and friends.
"They are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time," the tribute continued.
"May Marc rest in eternal peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal. Our Lady, Queen of the Gael, pray for him. A mhuire banrion na nGael, guigh ar a anam.
"A candle would not be bright enough for this young man so four photos that capture Marc at his best and capturing his distinctive style, always played with his head up. May Ireland’s green sod rest gently. #Forever18"
SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath expressed his condolences following Marc's tragic death.
Mr McGrath said: "I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Marc Quinn who was killed in a road accident on Sunday morning.
"It is never easy to lose a loved one but particularly in such difficult circumstances at such a young age is particularly tragic and will come as a shock to the entire community.
"I would appeal to anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist the police as soon as possible."
The PSNI Collision Investigation Unit are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have dash-cam footage to contact them on 101 quoting reference 166 of 30/01/22.
