18-Year-Old Soccer Player & Volunteer Tragically Dies Just Six Weeks After His Father

A Northern Ireland community is reeling after the loss of a young athlete and beloved volunteer just weeks after his family endured another tragedy.

Órán McConville, an 18-year-old from Rathfriland, County Down, died in a car crash on Kilkeel Road in Hilltown during the early hours of Saturday, April 5, 2025. The promising young soccer player and devoted volunteer passed away at the scene, leaving behind a community heartbroken by yet another devastating blow to his family.

Police confirmed that Órán was a passenger in a Volkswagen Golf that crashed before 2 a.m. The driver, also 18, was arrested. The soccer player is now being remembered for his sporting achievements, generosity, and impact on the community.

Drumgath GAC, the local soccer club, posted a condolence note on social media. "Órán's sudden death has left our entire club and wider community in deep shock and sorrow," they wrote.

They also revealed the added pain given his family's previous losses, "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."

The club emphasized that Órán had been a key member for a long time, having been involved from a young age, first as someone who cheered them on and later as a talented player.

His impressive track record included league titles and championship wins across multiple age groups, culminating in his recent promotion to the senior team and contribution to their Intermediate Championship success.

He was also a dedicated teammate at his school, St. Mark's, where he demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship. Beyond athletics, Órán's legacy extended to volunteerism. He helped at Cúl Camps, earning the admiration of children for his kindness and playful nature.

Last year, he traveled to Kenya on a volunteer mission with St. Mark's, showing compassion far beyond his hometown. The club said he always had time for people, whether they were young or old. They also mentioned he was warm, respectful, and quietly charming.

Órán leaves behind his mother, Amanda McConville, and his brother, Shéa McConville, and the soccer team has offered them their complete support. In their final words, the club expressed gratitude for the joy, happiness, and recollections shared, emphasizing that he would always be remembered.

In addition to his role in the soccer club and school, the young man worked with several community-focused organizations. FunFit Sports paused all its operations to honor his memory, and in their condolence note, they described him as a natural coach who built confidence and joy in every child he met.

"His manners, warmth, and kindness were evident in everything he did," they wrote, calling him a friend to all. They stated that his passing has created a significant void in everyone's lives.

Furthermore, Calmor Properties, where Órán briefly worked in 2023, also shared their sorrow. They remembered him as a valued team member who quickly became part of their close-knit group. "It is with a smile that we will remember Oran," their message read.

Our condolences go out to Órán's family and friends at this time, as this loss underscores many others happening around the world, like the tragic discovery of a real estate agent and her husband in their home.

Órán is not the only teenage sports lover to have passed away recently. As reported previously, Izaiah Smith, a 15-year-old soccer star on the rise, passed away after going for a swim. As tributes pour in and his school rallies behind his grieving family, emerging details surrounding the circumstances of his passing paint a heartbreaking picture of a vibrant life lost far too soon.

Izaiah was found dead late Friday night (April 4, 2025) after entering the waters of a lake located in Beckenham Place Park, situated in South East London.

Authorities confirmed that his body was discovered at approximately 10:40 p.m. BST following a search operation conducted by specialist dive teams. The Metropolitan Police stated that while the death is considered "unexpected," it is not believed to be suspicious.

The force notified Izaiah's family and shared that specialist officers are supporting them during this incredibly difficult time.

In the wake of the tragedy, Lewisham Council has taken precautionary steps to secure the area. While the wider Beckenham Place Park has reopened, the lake remains closed as a safety measure, with security stationed on-site "until further notice," as they put it.

A spokesperson for the council expressed the community's collective sorrow, stating, "We send our thoughts and deepest condolences to his family and friends. We are working closely with the police in order that their investigation establishes the full facts of what's happened."

Izaiah's untimely passing is particularly poignant as another heartbreaking incident involving 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa, who went missing in the River Thames, unfolded just days later. According to the Met, a "recovery mission" remains underway in her case.

The late teen's educational institution, Kingsdale Foundation School, and the wider community have been left heartbroken in the wake of Izaiah's passing.

In a letter addressed to parents, guardians, and carers, Headteacher Steve Morrison extended heartfelt thanks for the "kind words and ongoing support at this very difficult time," acknowledging the emotional toll of the tragedy across the school's extended network.

As tributes continue to pour in, the school has established several ways for the community to collectively grieve. A book of condolence has been made available on school grounds and will remain open throughout the holiday period and beyond. "Those who have expressed a wish to leave flowers, cards and tributes for the family can also do so," the letter states.

Morrison clarified that students and parents may contact the school for support via an email address he attached with the statement.

The headteacher also relayed a message from Izaiah's family, describing it as one that echoed the sentiments of the entire Kingsdale community.

The family began their statement by saying, "It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved Izaiah; cherished son, brother, cousin, nephew, classmate, and friend. ​​His bright future was tragically cut short in a drowning accident, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him."

Remembered for far more than his athletic abilities, Izaiah's loved ones highlighted how he uniquely uplifted those around him — his "infectious smile, charm, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others" turned ordinary moments into bright ones. As a rising soccer talent, he devoted himself to constant growth on and off the field.

The family described his legacy as one of "love, perseverance, and the joy he brought to every moment and everyone." The loved ones also acknowledged the overwhelming support from the community in the days following his death, sharing that they have been "deeply comforted by the outpouring of love and support during this unimaginable time."

To honor Izaiah's memory, his family invited those who feel moved to do so to contribute toward funeral and bereavement expenses, adding, "Each gesture will help us create a fitting tribute to celebrate his remarkable but short life and the light he shared with the world."

They also encouraged anyone wishing to leave messages, memories, or condolences to do so through Kingsdale Foundation School, where their words could become "a lasting comfort to our family as we navigate this loss." In closing, the family reiterated their gratitude to those who have already offered their support, writing, "Your love has been a beacon of strength and light in our darkest hours."

Anchored within Izaiah's family's tribute is a link to a GoFundMe page. Titled "In Loving Memory of Izaiah," the fundraiser was launched by Cara Gbemew on behalf of the parents of children and staff at Kingsdale Foundation School to assist Izaiah's grieving family.

The campaign's message reads, "We would like to raise funds in honour [sic] of Izaiah Smith who was sadly taken from many loved ones on Friday the 4th Of April. All donations will be greatly appreciated to support his family in this difficult time."

The fundraiser also features the touching letter shared by Izaiah's family. Accompanying the page is a black-and-white photo of Izaiah with his eyes gently closed and a peaceful expression on his face. The image appears to be set against the backdrop of a dimly lit soccer field — a poignant reflection of the boy he was and the sport he loved.

What began as a modest goal of approximately $3,817.94 (£3,000) has been met with an overwhelming response. As of now, 545 donations have poured in, pushing the total amount raised to about $15,751.53 (£12,377) — more than quadrupling the original target. This generosity reflects a community eager to wrap Izaiah's family in care, love, and financial relief as they process an unimaginable loss.

The wave of grief following Izaiah's passing has extended beyond his family, school, and immediate community, reaching into the broader world of youth football. Dorking Wanderers Football Club (FC), one of the clubs with which Izaiah was affiliated, expressed sorrow over the devastating loss of one of their own.

In a public tribute shared on Facebook, the club dubbed Izaiah a "hugely popular and talented young man," emphasizing his profound impact on those around him. The message underscored the tragedy of his passing, noting the difficulty in finding words to capture the weight of such a loss.

Dorking Wanderers FC also extended heartfelt condolences to Izaiah's loved ones while promising to offer support in any way they can to those affected. Among the many organizations impacted by Izaiah's passing is the Starz Elite Development Academy (SEDA), where he was a cherished member of the U16s team.

In a moving tribute, the academy described their collective heartbreak, noting that they were mourning the loss of a talented player and a "bright light within our programme [sic]." The academy's message remembered Izaiah as a constant presence at training — someone who would arrive with "the most adorable smile" and light up the room with his "huge character and infectious energy."

Beyond his talent on the field, he was praised for his respectful nature, consistent kindness, and consideration to all coaches and staff. SEDA noted how deeply he touched the lives of those around him, expressing, "The players and coaching staff at SEDA Academy will forever cherish the memories we shared with Izaiah."

In closing, SEDA members extended their deepest condolences to Izaiah's family and friends, expressing hope that they can find comfort in their own way. "You will always be in our hearts," they wrote — a sentiment echoed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Underneath their message, the academy shared a touching collage of photos capturing Izaiah in his element — both candid and composed moments from the field and locker room, standing proudly beside his teammates.

As the tributes continue to echo from classrooms, soccer fields, and community spaces, the grief surrounding Izaiah's passing has also struck a chord with those connected to him by even the thinnest thread.

One mother, whose son was a classmate of Izaiah's, shared a heartfelt message about the teen's death on Facebook.

Her words offered a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, as she highlighted, "Tomorrow is not promised... and shocks like this remind us to seize the day and cherish each moment u have with the ones u love [sic]."

We wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Izaiah's family, friends, school, community, and everyone mourning him. We hope for their healing amid their grief of such a significant loss.