Gardaí investigating death of teen following quad bike incident in Laois

Sarah Slater

Gardaí are investigating the death of a teenager in a quad bike incident in Laois on Easter Sunday.

The incident occurred at 2pm on Sunday in a wooded area close to the village of Emo, Co Laois.

The 15-year-old has been named locally as David Brown from Portlaoise, Co Laois.

Gardaí and emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 2pm, but the teenager was found with fatal injuries.

Officers have remained at the scene to investigate the circumstances which led to the fatal incident.

Gardaí confirmed this evening that a teenage boy died in the tragedy and a full investigation is underway.

The teenager is a member of the very well known Brown family from Portlaoise.

A keen sportsperson, he had represented Laois in the Celtic Challenge hurling competition on Saturday (yesterday) against Kildare as well as all levels with Portlaoise GAA.

He was also a member of the Laois minor hurling panel that defeated Antrim on Friday.

His brother Conor is a member of the Laois senior football panel that defeated Wexford on Sunday and his father James is a well-known local painting contractor and member of Laois Fire Services.

David is survived by his parents James, mother Carmel, brother Conor and sister Sarah. He was a third-year student in Portlaoise CBS where he represented both their football and hurling teams.

The school paid tribute to David on their app this evening and offered their condolences to his family.

One person who knew the teenager commented on social media: "Dave was a great guy, I will never forget all the times he made me laugh. Rest in peace Dave you will be missed."

In a statement gardai said: “Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a fatal incident that occurred in a wooded area near Ballyshanduff, Ballybrittas, County Laois on Sunday.

“The incident occurred at approximately 1:30pm and involved a quad bike with two males on board.

“A male youth in his teens was removed from the scene to Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise where he has since passed away.

“A second male youth in his teens was removed to Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore to be treated for his injuries which are believed to be non-life threatening. Investigations are ongoing.”

Any individuals with information or camera footage are asked to make it available to Gardaí at Portlaoise Garda Station on 0578674100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.