Two teenagers died on a post-Leaving Cert holiday in Greece in a “devastating loss”, their former secondary school said last night.
Andrew O’Donnell, 18, is suspected to have lost his life in a tragic accident, while Max Wall is understood to have passed away from natural causes while both on the island of Ios.
The pals had both recently graduated from St Michael’s College in Ballsbridge, South Dublin, and had been part of a large group.
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Andrew had become separated from a friend as they made their way home from a night out on Saturday.
His body was found yesterday morning in a field outside the town of Hora, with indications he had suffered a fall.
Meanwhile, Max was found unconscious near the port area of the island yesterday afternoon.
Despite efforts to revive him, he was later pronounced dead in hospital. It is suspected he may have died from natural causes.
Their friends were said to be devastated yesterday, with locals comforting them.
St Michael’s issued two separate statements just hours apart on the deaths.
The latest one last night read: “On a day of immense sadness for the school, we have been notified of another devastating loss from the class of 2023, with the passing of Max Wall.
“Max was a constant source of positivity, encouragement and fun for all of those around him.
“He was extremely popular with staff and students alike, and a fantastic supporter of our teams during the various cup campaigns. Our thoughts are with Max’s family at this awful time and with his friends who have experienced such a shocking loss over the last 24 hours.”
Earlier, a school spokesman had said: “We have learned of the tragic passing of Andrew O’Donnell, a member of our recently graduated class of 2023.
“Andrew was not only a popular classmate and friend, but a proud and committed member of our football team.
“He was kind to those around him, honest in all of his endeavours.
“Andrew will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
“Our thoughts are with Andrew’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”
Max’s older brother Charlie is a past pupil, while Andrew has a younger brother, Rory, in transition year.
St Michael’s put in a number of supports for students who were affected by the loss.
Last night, Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris said: “Thinking of the families and friends of Andrew and Max and all Leaving Cert students abroad in Greece who were enjoying holidays after exams and are now encountering such shock and pain and grief.
“I know we all hold them in our hearts tonight.”
Leinster Rugby posted on social media following the news and said: “The wider Leinster Rugby family and the @OLSCRugby [Leinster supporters] is in shock as we deal with the information coming home today.
“Thoughts with the families and friends of the young men gone far too soon.
“Look after each other and hold your loved ones that little bit tighter.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance but does not comment on individual cases.
Andrew and Max’s deaths was the third of a young Irishman within a week in Greece.
Rory Deegan, from Cullahill in Co Laois, died on the island of Zakynthos on Sunday, June 25.
The 22-year-old, who was there with a large group of pals, was found unresponsive in a pool Rory’s family are well-known and run the Centra in Urlingford, Co Kilkenny.
His funeral mass takes place on Tuesday at 12pm at St Tighearnach’s Church, Cullohill before burial in the adjoining cemetery.
