'Shock and sadness': Tipperary teenager (17) dies after attending Belfast music festival

Sarah Slater

A Tipperary teenager has been named as the person who died at a musical festival in Belfast on Sunday.

Mia Keevan from Carrick-on-Suir had been attending the Emerge Music Festival in south Belfast when she became suddenly unwell.

She was taken to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment but died a short time later.

Two other people were taken to hospital after also becoming ill at the same two-day event which attracted 40,000 music fans.

A woman in her 30s remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition, while a teenage boy has received treatment and is expected to make a full recovery.

PSNI Belfast District Commander, Superintendent Allister Hagan, confirmed that during the event a 17-year-old girl had become unwell.

“Sadly, she subsequently died in hospital. Police remained on the event site until Monday afternoon, 25th August. An investigation in order to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic sudden death of this young person is ongoing, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased,” Supt Hagan said in a statement.

“Police will continue to work closely with event organisers and the licensing authority to ensure that events remain safe and enjoyable for all of those who attend.”

Police said enquiries are ongoing into Ms Keevan’s death.

In a statement, Belfast City Council said it was "deeply saddened" by the death of the young woman, and that it sent its condolences to her family and friends.

A Gofundme page has been set up to help her family and raise €16,000. On the site Ms Keevan's friend Sarah Roche described her friend as a “bright, fun and much loved girl” who touched the hearts of anyone that knew her.

Ms Roche continued: "Mia was such an outgoing person and lit up every room she walked into. Her laughter and warmth will never be forgotten by those lucky enough to have known her.

"At this difficult time we are coming together to support Mia’s family with the unexpected costs they face and to give them space to grieve without added financial worry."

Tipperary councillor David Dunne said there was immense “shock and sadness in the community” but that local residents would do everything they can to help the family.