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20th Jul 2021

A 13-year-old boy has died while swimming in Co. Down

Kat O'Connor

“Please remember the family in your prayers.”

A 13-year-old boy has sadly passed away while swimming in Co. Down.

The teenager got into trouble when he was swimming in the Canal Court area of Scarva yesterday afternoon.

It is believed emergency services were alerted shortly after 3.30 pm, but despite their rapid response the boy tragically died in Craigavon Hospital.

An air ambulance, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, and police attended the scene of the harrowing incident.

The boy’s death is not being ruled as suspicious and PSNI state it is a tragic accident.

Speaking to BBC Northern Ireland, NIFRS’s Gary Magwood said: “Crews assisted and gave medical aid. This is very traumatic for the crews and for those in the local area.”

“Our condolences go out to the family,” he added.

“Please remember the family in your prayers as they come to terms with this harrowing tragedy,” Carla Lockhart, DUP, added.