The young boy who tragically died after getting into difficulty at a popular Sligo beach over the weekend has been named locally as Alan Singh.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon at Lissadell Beach, a well-frequented spot along the Sligo coast. At approximately 3:00pm, emergency services were alerted by members of the public after a child was seen struggling in the water.
Despite the rapid response, which included the dispatch of a rescue helicopter, Alan Singh was airlifted to Sligo University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Alan, who was just seven years old, lived in Ballisodare, Co. Sligo, with his family. He was a second-class pupil at St. John’s National School, where news of his sudden passing has left classmates, teachers, and the wider school community in shock and mourning.
His parents, IqbalJeet Singh and Andrea Dzurikova, along with his sister, extended family, and many friends, are said to be devastated by the loss. The school and local community have rallied in support of the family, with grief counselling being made available to students and staff in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation. Authorities have not released further details, but Gardaí have confirmed that a full inquiry into the cause of death is underway.
Lissadell Beach, located in the north of Sligo, is a popular destination, particularly during warmer months. The area is known for its natural beauty but, like many coastal locations in Ireland, can pose risks due to changing tides and currents. This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the need for vigilance near open water.
Alan’s funeral arrangements have been made public. He will repose at Church View Funeral Home in Collooney on Wednesday, where friends and family are invited to pay their respects between 4:00pm and 7:00pm. His remains will be removed on Thursday morning at 9:00am to Lakelands Crematorium in Cavan for a Committal Service, scheduled for 11:30am.
Tributes have poured in from across Sligo and beyond. Local councillors and community leaders have expressed condolences, describing Alan’s death as a “devastating loss” for the region.
St. John’s National School also released a brief statement offering heartfelt sympathies:
“Alan was a bright and cheerful presence in our classrooms. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts are with his family during this unimaginable time.”
The tragedy has reignited discussions around beach safety and emergency preparedness, particularly as the summer season approaches.
For families planning visits to coastal areas, Irish Water Safety advises close supervision of children, awareness of rip currents, and adherence to local swimming advisories.
This is not the first fatal incident at Irish beaches in recent years. A comprehensive water safety campaign has been ongoing nationwide, aimed at reducing drownings and water-related accidents, especially among young people.
As the community of Ballisodare and the wider Sligo area come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, the memory of Alan Singh will be cherished by all who knew him.
May he rest in peace.
