Hassan Taiwo died of natural causes, postmortem on teen finds

Bonfire to be held in memory of Galwau student who collapsed at soccer match

Hassan Taiwo (15) had just scored his second goal for Merlin Woods FC in a match against Salthill-Devon at Doughuisce on Sunday afternoon when he collapsed. Photograph: Facebook
Hassan Taiwo (15) had just scored his second goal for Merlin Woods FC in a match against Salthill-Devon at Doughuisce on Sunday afternoon when he collapsed. Photograph: Facebook

Preliminary postmortem results for the Nigerian-Irish student who collapsed during a soccer match in Galway at the weekend indicate that he died of natural causes.

Hassan Taiwo (15), a Junior Cert student at 'The Bish' secondary school in Galway city, had just scored his second goal for Merlin Woods FC in a match against Salthill-Devon at Doughuisce on Sunday afternoon when he collapsed.

He was rushed by ambulance to University Hospital Galway where he was pronounced dead a short time later. He was a champion athlete, talented soccer player and breakdancer.

He is survived by his parents Ibulhan and Azeez Taiwo and five siblings who live at the Sceilg Ard estate on the Headford road in Galway. His parents moved to Ireland from Nigeria about 13 years ago.

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Funeral arrangements are still being finalised, but a bonfire in the student’s memory is due to be held in Merlin Woods on Saturday afternoon.

A Facebook page states that there will be "strictly no alcohol, fireworks, messing" and appeals to those attending to "dress well, have respect", bring a candle and invites people to "say some kind words about Hassan".

Lorna Siggins

Lorna Siggins

Lorna Siggins is the former western and marine correspondent of The Irish Times