Classmates gather in grief at Charleville school to remember Darragh, 16, after tragic fall

THERE is “a deep sense of loss and grief” on both sides of the Limerick and Cork county bounds following the tragic death of a teenager from Charleville.

The 16-year-old passed away after suffering a fall close to a lake at Conor Pass near Dingle on Tuesday afternoon. He has been named locally as Darragh Byrne from the outskirts of Charleville.

Fr Pat Corkery, who ministers in Holy Cross Parish Charleville, said there is “a deep sense of loss and grief in the town”.

“It is very, very sad - such a young life cut off suddenly like that but people are very good to rally around. I'm sure people will rally around his parents and support them in any way they can,” said Fr Corkery.

The priest said Darragh attended CBS Secondary School, was very popular, and loved rock climbing and cycling. It's understood he was an only child.

“The school opened today for his classmates to gather, be together and just to chat about things. They opened a book of condolences and also wrote little memories of Darragh on pieces of paper,” said Fr Corkery.

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Darragh was on holidays in Kerry with his parents Siobhan, a teacher in Charleville, and James.

It is understood the accomplished rock climber fell from a height. 

The Valentia Coast Guard and the Shannon-based Rescue 115 helicopter travelled to the area near a location known locally as Peddlers Lake. Despite the best efforts of emergency services young Darragh sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Members of the Coast Guard Unit based in Daingean Uí Chúis, members of Kerry Mountain Rescue Team, gardaí, and National Ambulance Service crews were also involved in the recovery operation.

A garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí and emergency services attended a sudden death incident involving a male juvenile in An Chonair/Conor Pass, Co Kerry yesterday afternoon, Tuesday July 1, 2025.

"A post-mortem examination will take place in due course and a file prepared for the office of the coroner."

No funeral arrangements have been announced to date.

May he rest in peace.