A “dark cloud” hangs over a community in Co Meath after a teenage boy died off the coast of Laytown on Friday.
Condolences have been offered to the family of the teenager for their “devastating loss”, local representatives said.
Emergency services launched a search operation after receiving a report of a male in difficulty in the water at Laytown at 6.15pm on Friday.
The body of a male was removed from the water by the coastguard, gardai said.
He was pronounced dead at the scene and removed to Navan Hospital, where a post-mortem examination is due to take place.
Condolences have been shared with the boy’s family in the wake of the tragedy.
Minister of State and Meath East TD Thomas Byrne said it was “devastating to hear of the tragic death of a teenage boy” in Laytown.
“My heart goes out to his family, friends, all those who were around Laytown tonight, and all who are grieving,” he said on X.
“A summer moment has turned into an incalculable loss.”
Independent councillor Carol Lennon said it was “a devastating loss” for his family and friends.
“Thinking of those who were present, those who assisted with his recovery and those for whom this will trigger emotions of their own loss,” she said in a Facebook post.
Councillor Sharon Tolan said “a dark cloud” was hanging over the community on Friday night.
“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragic accident in Laytown,” she said on Facebook.
“Please think long and hard before posting any commentary on any social media pages.”
Gardai confirmed yesterday they were also involved in the operation.
A garda spokesperson said: “Gardai and emergency services are currently engaged in a search operation in the Laytown area of Co. Meath.
“As this is an ongoing incident, no further information is available.”
They have since asked the public not the share footage of the tragic incident.
It comes after an unrelated incident in Derry earlier this afternoon in which a man’s body was discovered on a beach.
It is understood the man got into difficulty swimming in the sea at Castlerock beach during the scorching weather.
