Tiarnán Trainor was injured in the incident just outside Killeavy, near Newry, and died in hospital.
Tributes to ‘much loved and popular’ boy after quad bike crash
Family handoutTributes have been paid to a 13-year-old boy who died after a quad bike crash near Newry.
Tiarnán Trainor was injured in the incident on Low Road just outside Killeavy on Thursday.
He was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast but later died from his injuries.
St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook described Tiarnán as a “much loved and popular year 10 pupil” who had recently been elected to serve on its student council.
In a statement, the school said Tiarnán had “an infectious personality” and was well known throughout the school as a “lorry fanatic”.
It announced that the school oratory would be open on Saturday and Sunday for pupils and their families to come together to remember Tiarnán.
“Following the return of pupils to school next week, the Education Authority’s Critical Incident Team, as well as school staff, will be available to help and support pupils at this very sad time,” the school added.
Jonesborough Primary School, which Tiarnán previously attended, said: “As a community we stand in compassion with Tiarnán’s family, understanding that words cannot soothe the heartbreak of loss nor grief, especially when a life ends so prematurely.
“Tiarnán was a lively and spirited boy, who will be fondly remembered by all.”
Killeavy GAA club said it was “heartbroken” by the death of Tiarnán, who had been a player for its under-14 boys team.
The 12th Armagh Slieve Gullion Scouts said its leaders and members “are deeply saddened” to learn of the death.
“We have many fond memories of him in Cubs” the group added.
Armagh Summer School, where Tiarnan regularly attended its Gaelic Games camps, described the news as “heartbreaking”.
“Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends, may he rest in peace”.
Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) MLA Justin McNulty described the incident as “horrendous”.
“We are all just shocked by this horrible news, especially at this time of year,” he said.
“We are just so devastated for the young boy’s mother and father.”