The teenager who died in a tragic road collision near Hilltown on Saturday has been described as “a young man full of promise, kindness and spirit”.
Órán McConville was the passenger in a car which was involved in a single vehicle collision on the Kilkeel Road at around 2am. The 18-year-old driver was arrested.
Órán was from Rathfriland, and his passing comes just six weeks after the loss of his father, Patrick. His sister, Rachael, also died in a tragic road collision 16 years ago.
Tributes to the popular young man have been paid by his local GAA club, his former school, St Mark’s High in Warrenpoint – where he had sat his A Levels last summer – and the Milestone supermarket in Rathfriland, where he worked.
Drumgath GAC described Órán’s passing as “devastating”.
It said: “Órán was so much more than a young man- he was a bright light in our community. Kind, gentle, full of humour, and always up for a chat, Órán had that rare ability to make everyone feel at ease in his company. He had time for people, young and old, and brought joy to those lucky enough to have known him.
“Whether it was on the football pitch or in the heart of the community, Órán carried himself with warmth, respect, and quiet charm.
“Órán’s contribution to Drumgath GAC on the field was nothing short of outstanding. A talented and dedicated footballer, he wore the jersey with immense pride. From the moment he could walk, Órán was part of our club – first as a supporter, watching his older siblings, Rachael and Shéa, represent Drumgath and later as a player in his own right.
“His achievements began in 2018, being a part of the U13 team who went on to win the league. In 2019, he was a key member of the Drumclone U14 Féile team, helping secure the County title and reach the All-Ireland semi-final. In 2021, he was part of the U15 team that lifted the All County B Championship cup.
“He went on to play in the U17 Championship Final, and was part of the winning team in the Daniel Bailie Tournament in 2022. He also helped secure the U17 B Championship title in 2023. In 2024, he played a central role in the U18 Division 2 League win before proudly making the step up to Senior level, contributing to our Intermediate Championship success and promotion.
“Órán also proudly played schools’ football with St. Mark’s, where he was equally respected for his commitment, sportsmanship, and team spirit. Órán was a teammate everyone could count on- his legacy on the pitch will never be forgotten.
“Beyond the pitch, he was someone who gave generously of his time. He was a brilliant young volunteer, always willing to lend a hand. He gave his energy and enthusiasm to our Cúl Camps, where he was loved by all the children- always patient, full of fun, and a brilliant role model.
“Last year, he travelled to Kenya with St. Mark’s on a life-changing volunteer trip, showcasing his compassion far beyond his own community.
“Órán’s sudden death has left our entire club and wider community in deep shock and sorrow. A young man full of promise, kindness, and spirit, Órán had so much life ahead of him. He was a cherished friend to many, a teammate, and a beloved son and brother.
“This tragedy is made all the more poignant as it comes just six weeks after the passing of his father, Paddy, and 16 years after the heartbreaking loss of his sister, Rachael. Our hearts go out to his loving mother, Amanda, and his devoted brother, Shéa – for any family to endure such loss is beyond comprehension. We offer them our full support, prayers, and strength in the days, weeks, and months ahead.
“As a club and a community, we share in Amanda and Shéa’s heartbreak and will offer them our deepest care and support throughout this unimaginable time.
“To Órán- thank you for the laughter, the smiles, and the memories. You will never be forgotten. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”
St Mark’s High School said the entire community had also been left “devastated” by the loss of the recent past pjupil.
Posting on social media, the school said: “Órán left St. Mark’s last August after completing his A Levels. He was incredibly hard working and had a drive to be successful, which he achieved in every aspect of his life.
“Órán represented our school with pride on the Gaelic football field and soccer pitch returning many trophies to our cabinet over the years. In his final year in school he was part of the successful U18 soccer team who won the South Down Cup, the first time in our school’s history. He loved pulling on the purple jersey, just like his brother and daddy.
“In November of last year, Órán travelled to Kenya with the St. Mark’s team, immersing himself in the culture and making a lasting impression on everyone he met. He helped build a house and he taught in the primary school where his personality shone through.
“Every day was a new adventure and his love of travelling was just beginning.
“Órán was quite simply a gentleman who will be sorely missed. He was fiercely proud of his purple blood!
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Órán’s mummy Amanda and his brother Shéa, his wider family circle and his dear friends. Rest in peace Órán.
“St. Mark pray for him.”
The Milestone supermarket, meanwhile, described Órán as a “dear work colleague and friend”.
The store also paid tribute and offered its symathies via Facebook.
It said in a post: “Oran was a valued member of the Milestone team since June 2022 – full of talent, kindness, and an infectious positivity that touched everyone who had the pleasure of working with him. Though his time with us was far too short, he made a lasting impact both professionally and personally.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his mother Amanda, our much-loved work colleague, and to his brother Shea, a former member of our team. We are keeping them, and all of Oran’s family and friends, in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
“Oran will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
“Rest in peace, Oran xx.”
