Investigation continues into death of Tipperary teenager after Belfast festival

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, PA

Police are continuing to investigate the death of a teenage girl from Co Tipperary who became unwell at a dance music festival in Belfast.

Mia Keevan, 17, from Carrick-on-Suir, became unwell at the Emerge festival and died in hospital.

An online fundraiser set up to support her family with the “unexpected costs” has raised more than €18,000.

Miss Keevan was described as a “bright, fun and much loved” girl who “touched the hearts of anyone that knew her”.

Her funeral mass will be held in St Nicholas’ Church in Carrick-on-Suir on Saturday morning and her family has asked that mourners wear light or bright-coloured clothing.

Superintendent Allister Hagan said police were in attendance at the festival in Boucher Playing Fields at the weekend.

“During the event, it was reported that a 17-year-old girl had become unwell,” he said.

“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.

“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.”

Two other people also became ill at the Emerge festival.

A woman aged in her 30s was in a serious but stable condition, while a boy aged in his teens received treatment and is expected to make a full recovery, police said.

Police said they worked with the organisers and Belfast City Council to support “the safe delivery of the festival”.

Seven arrests were made over the weekend and 13 immediate disposals were issued – three fixed penalty notices, one caution and nine community resolution notices.

“Offences included disorderly behaviour, driving whilst unfit through excess alcohol, assault on police and possession of controlled drugs,” Superintendent Hagan said.