Tributes have been paid to a 13-year-old boy who died after a quad bike accident near Newry.
Tiarnan Trainor was injured in the incident on Low Highway outside Killeavy on Thursday.
He was taken to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital but later died from his injuries.
St Paul’s Excessive College in Bessbrook described Tiarnán as a “well-liked and fashionable year 10 student” who had recently been elected to its student council.
In a statement, the school said Tiarnan had “an infectious personality” and was well known throughout the school as a “truck fanatic.”
He announced that the school oratory would be open on Saturday and Sunday so that students and their families could gather in memory of Tiarnán.
“Following the return of students to school next week, the Education Authority’s Critical Incident Team, as well as school staff, will be available to help and support students at this very sad time,” added the school.
Christine Fearon, vice-principal of St Paul’s Excessive College, called the news “devastating”.
He described Tiarnán as “a cheerful, cheeky charmer” who was “very friendly and lively.”
Ms Fearon said Tiarnán was “very fashionable” and was recently chosen to represent the 305 students in his year.
“He is a wonderful young man and will leave a huge void at St. Paul’s,” he added.
Jonesborough Primary School, which Tiarnán previously attended, said: “As a community, we feel compassion for Tiarnán’s family and understand that words cannot ease the anguish of loss or pain, especially when a life ends so prematurely.
“Tiarnán was a lively and spirited child, who will be remembered fondly by all.”
The Killeavy GAA club said it was “heartbroken” by the death of Tiarnán, who had been a player on its under-14 boys team.
The club members described him as “a pleasure to coach him.”
“He enjoyed playing matches and all of us will remember him for his bright and positive personality, always jovial and energetic among his teammates and for being a very well-mannered young man.”
“His young teammates and coaches will miss him greatly,” the club added.
The 12th Armagh Slieve Gullion Scouts said its leaders and members “are deeply saddened” to hear of the death.
“We have a lot of good memories of him on the Cubs,” the group added.
Armagh Summer School, where Tiarnan regularly attended his Gaelic Games camps, described the news as “heartbreaking”.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, may he rest in peace.”
Social Democratic and Labor Party (SDLP) MP Justin McNulty described the incident as “horrible”.
“We are all shocked by this horrible news, especially at this time of year,” he said.
“We are very devastated for the young man’s mother and father.”
