Tributes paid to 'caring' Dundalk student who died in Laytown drowning tragedy

Irish Independent

21-06-2025

The boy had been with a number of friends when he got into difficulty while swimming in the River Nanny near the popular beach at Laytown.
The alarm was raised by a member of the public shortly before 6.15pm and his was recovered from water by the coastguard around 9.30pm and he was pronounced dead at the scene. His remains were taken to Our Lady's Hospital in Navan where a post-mortem will be carried out.
Kofi lived with is mother Maria at Rockfield Court, Dundalk and his younger sister. He has an older sister who is studying in Galway.
The 15-year-old had just completed his Junior Certificate in Coláiste Chú Chulainn.
School principal Thomas Sharkey said it was 'with deep sadness' that Coláiste Chú Chulainn and Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) had learned of Kofi's death.
"This is a terrible tragedy for Kofi's family and friends, the Coláiste Chú Chulainn community and the local community of Dundalk and the surrounding areas, who are deeply saddened by this event.
He described Kofi as 'a very caring young man with a wide circle of friends.'
" He was a diligent student and a regular awardee for excellent attendance.
Kofi was also an accomplished sportsman, and was a member of the school's under 15 soccer team and represented the school in the recent Leinster Shield final last month
He was also a member of the school's under 16 basketball team and represented the school in the All Ireland final in January.
'Our sympathy and thoughts are with Kofi's family and friends at this time,' said Mr Sharkey.
The news of the popular student's death came as a terrible shock to his friends, and he said that Guidance Counsellors and staff at the school will be helping students to deal with this
tragic event.
'The school will be open to students and parents to support them and to offer them advice and guidance,' he said. 'The National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) of the Department of Education and Youth have been in contact with the school and will be supporting and advising staff in their efforts to assist our students.'
Kofi also played soccer with Redeemer Celtic Football Club, who posted a picture of two jerseys online in memory of the young player. The jerseys, featuring the number six, were placed on a pitch alongside flowers. Management at the club said they were 'heartbroken' and that the facility is closed until further notice.