Tributes paid to Irish woman Eve McCarthy (21) who died in rock climbing area in Spain

By Cate McCurry, PA

Tributes have been paid to a 21-year-old Irish woman who died after falling in a rock climbing area near Malaga in southern Spain.

Named locally as Eve McCarthy, she was a final year student at University College Dublin (UCD) and a past pupil of Loreto Abbey school in Dalkey.

Ms McCarthy was with a friend close to the village of El Chorro, which is near the famous Caminito del Rey aerial pathway, when she fell on Friday evening.

Her body was recovered by emergency services.

The two had been in an area called the Swiss Sector, according to reports.

Many people have been paying tribute to the student.

School principal at Loreto Abbey Robert Dunne said in a statement: “We extend our deepest sympathies to her parents, Paul and Helen, her brother James, and friends of our past pupil, Eve, class of 2021, on her passing.

“Eve will always remain a member of our school family.

“Those of us who knew her and had the privilege of teaching her remember her with gratitude.

“We give thanks for all the gifts Eve brought to our school.

“She was fun-loving, hardworking, and a young woman of intelligence and kindness.

“Her gentle nature made her a friend to many, and her sharp wit and sense of humour brought joy and laughter to those around her.

“She touched so many lives, and our school was a brighter place because she was part of it.

“As a school community, we pray that all whose lives Eve touched may find strength and support in one another during this difficult time.”

The Kings Inn in Dalkey, where Ms McCarthy worked, also paid tribute.

The restaurant closed on Saturday, Sunday and Monday following her death.

They posted on social media: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the sad death of our colleague and friend Eve McCarthy.

“Eve was a big part of The King’s Inn family, bringing so much joy and laughter with her fun-loving way of life.

“Eve had great wit and was always so bubbly with a beautiful smile.

“We will miss Eve more than words can express.”

In a statement, a spokesman for Guardia Civil confirmed that a 21-year-old Irish woman died in El Chorro.

They said she died in a “random accident” and that they are continuing to investigate the cause.

“The case is in the hands of the court and we cannot provide any additional information,” it added.