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A teenage boy who was seriously injured in a freak accident at St Kieran’s College in Kilkenny city on Monday afternoon has died in hospital.
It is understood the teenager had been hurling with friends when he was struck with a slíotar in the upper part of the body. He has been named locally as Harry Byrne, 13, from Gowran, Co Kilkenny.
In a statement the school said: “St Kieran’s College deeply regrets that a tragic accident happened at lunchtime yesterday involving a young student of our school. The accident occurred while the students were playing normally.
“This is a terrible tragedy for his family, friends, parish and all in our school community. You will understand the need for privacy at this time.
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“Prayers and offers of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated.”
The statement added: “Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service are present with us in the school supporting and advising teachers in their efforts to care for our students at this time.
“The school continues to be open to parents, to support them and to offer them advice and guidance.”
The 13-year-old boy, who is from in villages of Gowran and Clara, was rushed to St Luke’s General Hospital on Monday afternoon and later transferred to a hospital in Dublin.
Gardaí have confirmed that they are aware of the incident and treating it as a tragic accident.
A file is being prepared for the Coroner’s Court