Shocked pals have paid tribute to a teenager who lost a three-day fight for life after apparently taking drugs at a festival.
Jack Downey, 19, was rushed to Cork University Hospital on Friday night after being brought to medical services at Indiependence by pals.Sadly, the Clonmel teen passed away on Monday afternoon surrounded by his family.
Jack was an avid hurler and was a goalkeeper for Clonmel Og’s junior team.
His team paid a touching tribute on Facebook, with others quick to add their condolences.
Clonmel Og said: “Our worst fears were realised this afternoon with the news that Jack Downey passed away in the company of his parents.
“We are devastated and will have more to say in time.
“At a time like this we need to be strong and there for each other.”
One person said: “Absolutely heartbroken. It’s a sad sad day. Thinking of Elaine and Johnny at this awful time. May you get the best bed in heaven Jack.”
One person said: “Absolutely heartbroken. It’s a sad sad day. Thinking of Elaine and Johnny at this awful time. May you get the best bed in heaven Jack.”
Another added: “Devastating news. Every parents worst nightmare. Rest In Peace Jack. Thinking of all his family and friends.”
While someone else said: “I’m so very sorry to hear this awful news. May Jack Rest In Peace. My deepest sympathies to Elaine and John, his family and friends.”
Local Councillor Garret Ahearn said the community is in mourning after the tragic news.
The Fine Gael Councillor said: “It’s a real tragedy for the family, friends and everyone in the community who knew him.
“His family was very well-known in Clonmel and people are just totally shocked.
“Jack was a lovely fella, a really nice lad, he played for the local GAA club and was just a popular young man.
“It’s wicked sad, so many things have to go wrong for what happened to him and we were all hoping and praying he would pull through.“Everyone just wants to pass on their condolences to the family and friends and will try support them after this tragedy.”
An Indiependence organiser warned of a “bad batch” of a substance going around the Mitchelstown Festival and for people to look after themselves.
A spokesman said: “Welfare Message - We have reports of a bad batch of something in the campsite, do not consume any substances that you
are unsure about, it has the potential to make you very sick. Please be careful and look after each other.”
Cork University Hospital also issued a statement, saying: “CUH has received patients with very severe illness from taking Ecstasy at the Indie19 festival in Mitchelstown.“We are aware that a text message was issued to attendees concerning reports of a bad batch of something on the campsite.
“Please circulate and to all attending stay safe.”
Gardai are investigating the incident and are hoping to track down the source of the potent drug.
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