A south Armagh community is in mourning following the death of a teenage boy as a result of a tragic fall at the Cliffs of Moher in Co. Clare on Friday.
The body of 17-year-old Lochlann Murray, from the Crossmaglen/Silverbridge area, was recovered from the shoreline on Sunday by members of Rockcorry Divers and North Coast Search and Recovery team (RDNCSR).
It was reported that the teenager had fallen onto the rocks just above the shoreline.
According to RDNCSR, the operation lasted three hours, with Lochlann’s body recovered at approximately 3.30pm on Sunday, July 7.
“The area below could not be seen from the top of the cliffs, but information was relayed via a drone,” said a spokesperson.
“Poor weather conditions in recent days, along with the swell and large rocks, made the recovery very difficult.
“Falling debris from the face of the cliff was another hazard the dive team had to be aware of. Divers made their way ashore to the base of the cliffs around 2.30pm, and at around 3.30pm, the body was located.
“The dive team successfully recovered the remains into their support vessel. The body was taken back to the Coast Guard station in Doolin.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the deceased at this very sad time.”
A funeral notice for Lochlann, who was from the Lurgan Road, describes him as the beloved son of Jodi and Kieran, and devoted brother of Hannah.
The cherished grandson of Lochlann and Maeve Murray and Jean and the late Bill Viau. Predeceased by his uncle Peter RIP.
Dear nephew of Aislinn, Aoife, Clare, Miceal, Niall, Micheál, Bob & Sherri. Cousin of Emma, Mickey Pat, Ellie Ann, Ruby, Meabh, Gabe & Delaney.
Lochlann will repose at Mc Conville’s Funeral Home between 4-8pm on Tuesday evening (visitors welcome to pay their respects between these times).
Removal at 8.15pm on Tuesday to his home on the Lurgan Rd (House strictly private at all times until his funeral) which will take place on Thursday, July 11, leaving at 10.30am to St Brigid’s Church, Glassdrummond arriving for Requiem Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in Creggan Cemetery.
Deeply regretted by his sorrowing parents, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended Murray & Viau families, neighbours and many friends in Silverbridge.
Hundreds of tributes, including many from heartbroken friends, have been paid online, such is the sense of shock and sadness at the passing of someone so young.
Sinn Féin councillor, Aoife Finnegan, commented: “Sincere condolences to the family and friends. Sending deepest love and support. Rest in peace Lochlann.”
Silverbridge ABC commented: “All of us at Silverbridge Boxing Club send our heartfelt condolences to the family of Lochlann. Lochlann was a former boxer at our club and his dad Kieran a coach. Lochlann is our coach Miceal’s nephew and the Murray and Martin families have always been great supporters of our club. Go Raibh Suaimhneas Síoraí Air.”
