
Stunned friends of a 16-year-old schoolboy last night paid tribute to him after he collapsed and died of a suspected heart attack on a school hike.
Transition year pupil Neil Quinlan from Glenclose, The Park, Cabinteely, Dublin, collapsed in front of pals at the International Youth Hostel in Glendalough, Wicklow, just before 4pm on Tuesday.
The St Conleth’s student — who was on the hike as part of the Gaisce Presidential Challenge — was rushed by air ambulance to Tallaght Hospital but passed away a short time later.
A statement last night posted on the website of the Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, school said: “Neil passed away suddenly yesterday evening.
“A special assembly was held in the school [yesterday] morning to inform students and to pray for the repose of his soul.”
Speaking afterwards, school director of development Ann Sheppard said that the thoughts and prayers of everyone at the school were with Neil and his family.
Pals of Neil last night opened their hearts about his loss on Twitter.
“You were some man, great crack too, rest in peace,” wrote one pal.
Another posted: “Rest in peace Neil, you will be missed dearly by so many.
“My heart goes out to your family and everyone who knew you.”