13 hours ago
'Dark cloud hangs' over community after teenager drowns in Co Meath
A "dark cloud hangs" over a local community after a teenage boy drowned in Laytown, Co Meath, a local councillor has said.
The body of the teenager was recovered from the River Nanny last night.
Enjoying the good weather yesterday evening, a group of teenage boys were playing in the water under the footbridge near Laytown Beach when tragedy struck.
A member of the public raised the alarm shortly before 6.15pm when one of the teenager boys went missing in the River Nanny.
A search and rescue operation was launched.
The Dublin-based Irish Coast Guard Rescue 116 helicopter was overhead within 25 minutes and the Drogehda Coast Guard Unit was launched.
Shortly after 9.30pm last night, a body was recovered from the water.
A teenage boy, believed to be aged 15 or 16, was pronounced dead at the scene.
His body has been taken to Our Lady's Hospital in Navan, where a post-mortem examination will be carried out.
Gardaí have said that they are aware that videos of this incident have been shared online
They have asked for such footage and imagery not to be circulated further.
It is devastating to hear of the tragic death of a teenage boy in Laytown earlier this evening. My heart goes out to his family, friends, all those who were around Laytown tonight, and all who are grieving.
A summer moment has turned into an incalculable loss.
Thank you to…
— Thomas Byrne (@ThomasByrneTD) June 20, 2025
Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne said it was "devastating to hear of the tragic death" of the teenage boy.
The Meath East TD wrote on X: "My heart goes out to his family, friends, all those who were around Laytown tonight, and all who are grieving.
"A summer moment has turned into an incalculable loss.
"Thank you to the Coast Guard teams, emergency services, and local volunteers who responded.
"Please respect the family's privacy and Gardai have asked to avoid sharing any images or details online.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."
Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Councillor Sharon Tolan said a "dark cloud" hangs over the community following the teenager's tragic death.
She added: "My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragic accident in Laytown today.
