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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Dan Haygarth

Tribute paid to 'massive LFC fan', 14, killed in Irish petrol station explosion

Tributes have been paid to a "massive LFC fan" who died after an explosion at an Irish petrol station.

Leona Harper, 14, was among the ten victims of the explosion at an Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough, Co Donegal on Friday (August 7). Police are continuing to investigate the blast, which has also left a man in his 20s in a critical condition in a Dublin hospital.

The ten people killed in the explosion have been named by police as 48-year-old James O’Flaherty, 24-year-old Jessica Gallagher, 49-year-old Martin McGill, 39-year-old Catherine O’Donnell and her 13-year-old son James Monaghan, 59-year-old Hugh Kelly, 49-year-old Martina Martin, 50-year-old Robert Garwe and his five-year-old daughter Shauna Flanagan Garwe, and 14-year-old Leona Harper.

READ MORE: Young girl among ten killed in Irish petrol station explosion

The Donegal Liverpool FC Supporters Club paid tribute to Leona on Twitter. They wrote: "One of the victims of the tragedy in Creeslough Co Donegal was Leona Harper.

"Leona was a massive LFC fan and today should have been a day to enjoy with her family and dad Hugh with LFC taking on Arsenal. Our thoughts are with all in this very difficult time."

The Irish Mirror reports that Leona's brother Anthony shared a picture in tribute, saying he "couldn't have asked for a better little sister". He wrote: "Leona I love you so much and we all love you so much."

Leona also played for Letterkenny Rugby Club's under-14s team. The club left its tribute to her on Facebook, writing: "We are heartbroken to say our worst fears have been confirmed. Leona Harper tragically lost her life yesterday in Creeslough.

"Leona was a talented rugby player and an important part of our U14 girls team. To Leona's parents, Hugh and Donna, her brothers Anthony and Jamie, and all of her team mates, we offer you our deepest condolences and support.

"There are no words that feel strong enough at a moment of deep sorrow such as this.

"Rest in peace, Leona."

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