Tributes have continued to pour in for young GAA star David Brown after his death in a quad bike accident on Easter Sunday. His club, Portaloise GAA, has remembered him as a "shining star" in a heartfelt tribute.
Gardai are investigating the death of the 15-year-old dual star in the accident which occurred at 2pm on Easter Sunday in a wooded area close to the village of Emo, Co Laois.
Gardai and emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 2pm but the teenager was found with fatal injuries. Officers have remained at the scene to investigate the circumstances which led to the fatal accident.
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David is a member of the very well-known Brown family from Portlaoise.
A keen sportsperson, he had represented Laois in the Celtic Challenge hurling competition on Saturday against Kildare as well as all levels with Portlaoise GAA.
He was also a member of the Laois minor hurling panel that defeated Antrim on Friday.
His brother Conor is a member of the Laois senior football panel that defeated Wexford on Sunday.
His father James is a well-known local painting contractor and member of Laois Fire Services.
David is survived by his parents James, mother Carmel, brother Conor and sister Sarah. He was a third-year student in Portlaoise CBS where he represented both their football and hurling teams.
The school paid tribute to David on their app and offered their condolences to his family.
In a statement Portlaoise GAA Club said: ”We are heartbroken beyond words. David was one of our very best and brightest. In football and in hurling. For club and for county. Vibrant, fearless, skillful, determined, proud - a shining star on every team he played for. Brilliant attitude and manners, always respectful to his coaches and his teammates, always willing to listen and to learn.
“Already a hero in the eyes of so many of our youngest, David was a cast iron prospect for the future of our senior teams. It is difficult to process this. We will do our best to support each other over the times ahead.
“James, Carmel, Conor, Sarah - we are so sorry for your immense loss. We share your profound grief. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and the extended Brown and Maloney families.
“To David’s many friends, team-mates, coaches, parents of friends…please stay close and connected over the coming days.
"RIP David. Forever young. Forever a Star. Funeral arrangements to follow.”
One person who knew the teenager commented on social media: “Dave was a great guy, I will never forget all the times he made me laugh. Rest in peace Dave you will be missed.
Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this incident to come forward.
In a statement gardai said: “Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a fatal incident that occurred in a wooded area near Ballyshanduff, Ballybrittas, County Laois on Sunday.
“The incident occurred at approximately 1:30pm and involved a quad bike with two males on board.
“A male youth in his teens was removed from the scene to Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise where he has since passed away.
“A second male youth in his teens was removed to Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore to be treated for his injuries which are believed to be non-life threatening.
“Investigations are ongoing.”
Any individuals with information or camera footage are asked to make it available to Gardaí at Portlaoise Garda Station on 0578674100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
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