Shock in Tyrone at sudden passing of county hurling star Damian Casey
There is shock at Tyrone at news of the tragic death of GAA star Damian Casey.
It is believed Mr Casey, who was in his late 20s, had been in Spain attending a wedding when there was an accident at a swimming pool.
In a statement, Tyrone GAA said they were shaken by the tragic news.
"Heartbreak and grief can come in many forms," it read. "(It is) especially cruel when brought about by the sudden death of someone young, talented, outgoing and in the prime of life.
"Accordingly, Gaelic Tyrone is totally shaken by the news of the tragic death of Damian Casey, a supreme hurler just now at the peak of his powers.
"This news is beyond belief,” a shocked Tyrone County Chair Michael Kerr saidInp.
“Someone who brought honour, delight and simple, straightforward gladness to our whole County, and far beyond, is gone and it’s so hard to take in.”
“There are very difficult days ahead for Sean, Susan, Louise and Catherine, for Damian’s wider family circle and many friends and associates, for his team-mates and for the Gaels of Dungannon and Tyrone.”
“Our deepest sympathy goes to them, and our focus must now be on providing the support and comfort that will be so badly needed.”
Damian Casey was a special gift to Tyrone and to hurling. We were the richer for his presence and are the poorer for his passing.
‘D’imigh tú i mbláth na hóige, ar Sholas na bhFlaitheas go raibh d’anam | You departed in the bloom of youth, may your soul be granted the Light of Heaven.’
County Chairman Michael Kerr said Damian was a special gift to Tyrone, and that they'd be poorer for his passing.
Mr Casey played for the Eoghan Ruadh club in Dungannon.