RIP: Tributes paid to teenager and keen sportsman who tragically lost his life

Tributes have been paid to a teenager who lost his life tragically in an incident in Donegal.

Dylan Ward sustained serious injuries following an incident at Inver on Monday August 20 before passing away in hospital on the following Wednesday morning. Dylan was a keen sportsman and the son of Daniel and Fiona, brother of Leah.

An Garda Siochana were called to the scene on Monday evening and said: “A male youth (aged in his teens) sustained serious injuries. He was airlifted to Sligo University Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased on Tuesday 19th August 2025.

“The scene is currently held for technical examination. Enquiries are ongoing and no further information is available at this time.”

Dylan was a third year student at Abbey Vocational School in Donegal Town, who said: “Our entire school community is saddened to learn of the passing of one of our highly valued third year students. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this time.”

“It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the sad passing of our U16 player, Dylan Ward,” Four Masters GAA and LGFA club posted.

“Dylan was a great teammate with a fantastic attitude towards training and games. He was an integral part of our All Ireland Feile shield winning team at the end of June this year, and he will be sorely missed by his fellow players and coaches alike.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the Ward and Murray families and all who mourn his loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

“It is with the deepest sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of our U16 player and dear friend, Dylan Ward,” Donegal Town FC posted.

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“We extend our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Dylan’s mum and dad, Fiona and Daniel, his sister Leah, and to all the Murray, Ward, and extended families. To Dylan’s many friends, and to his teammates at Donegal Town FC, we know his infectious energy and bright spirit, both on and off the football field, will be sorely missed. May Dylan Rest in Peace.”

Donegal Town RFC posted: “It is with deep sadness that the President, Committee, and Members of Donegal Town RFC have learned of the passing of our former youth player, Dylan Ward.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Dylan’s family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Scoil Rince Tir Chonaill said the news is “heartbreaking.”
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They posted: “Our dance community has been shaken by the heartbreaking news that has reached us all today. While our hearts are heavy, our deepest thoughts are with the Ward and Murray families, who are facing unimaginable pain. We send them strength, love, and every ounce of support in the days ahead, and want them to know that we will be here for them in the weeks and months to come. May young Dylan rest in peace.”