Funeral postponed as body of Lisnaskea victim not released

The funeral of the third of four victims of the weekend car crash in Fermanagh was postponed yesterday

The funeral of the third of four victims of the weekend car crash in Fermanagh was postponed yesterday. A statement from the coroner's office in Belfast said the body of Danica O'Rourke (17) was yet to be released for burial because of questions of identity.

"The remains of one of the victims of the road traffic collision which took place on July 2nd is yet to be released by the coroner pending further analysis of evidence concerning identification," the statement said.

"Everything that can be done is being done to minimise the delay of the release of the remains."

There was still no confirmation on when Ms O'Rourke's body would be released as Peter Leonard (21) was brought to Holy Cross church in Lisnaskea for burial. Many businesses closed as the cortege passed.

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He was one of four young people who died early on Sunday when the car in which they were back-seat passengers crashed just outside Lisnaskea. The funerals of two other victims, Anita Swift (16) and Jonathan McDonald (21) were held nearby in Newtownbutler on Tuesday.

Fr Ian Fee called on mourners to hope and to celebrate Peter's life and to pray that the bereaved would find peace and comfort.

Peter's red and white football shirt adorned the coffin as it was carried past a guard of honour formed by members of Donagh GAA club. Other mementos, including a smiling photograph, were placed on the altar.

Fr Fee asked reporters present to relate to the wider community "a positive message" and "to bring the truth of the situation to others". He spoke of the "great shock, despair and devastation" of the local people.

Peter was later buried in the adjoining cemetery.