Dungannon school in shock at tragic death of star pupil

The much-loved pupil at Integrated College Dungannon was due to return to class this morning (Friday) with his fellow pupils, who have been left devastated by the tragic news.

The school Principal Andrew Sleeth said the entire school was in shock.

“Kian was a quiet, gentle lad who was thought of so highly by everyone in the college”, he said.

“I remember the first time that Kian visited us and how, like every mum, Vicky was anxious about his move to ‘big’ school. Within a day, Kian had settled in to ICD as if he had always been here.

“In his two years at the college, Kian made many friends and achieved much. He received the Form Student Award at our last Junior Prize-Giving Ceremony.

“He won several Assessment Point Subject Awards and won the Upcycle Project Award at Easter. He enjoyed running and was a regular participant in the cross country running group after school on Tuesdays.

“He attended ICT club during lunchtimes regularly and, like most young boys, he enjoyed the company of his friends and loved gaming.

Mr Sleeth said the college will provide support for all those affected by Kian’s sudden and sad passing.

“We will keep Kian, his family, friends and classmates, in our thoughts and prayers. He will be sorely missed by us all.”

An under-16 GAA championship match between Dungannon and Errigal Ciaran was postponed on Thursday night to mark the tragedy, and tributes have flooded in through social media.