A tragic wave of sorrow swept through the Buncrana community in County Donegal, Ireland, following the death of a 16-year-old Nigerian boy, Emmanuel Familola, who drowned while swimming with friends.
The incident occurred on Saturday, May 10, 2025, when Emmanuel and two other teenagers reportedly got into difficulty while swimming in Lough Swilly.
One of the teenagers managed to swim to safety, while another was rescued from the water in critical condition and rushed to Letterkenny General Hospital.
Emmanuel, however, was declared missing, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation involving air and sea units.
The teen’s body was later recovered between Ned’s Point and Fahan, near Buncrana. He was pronounced dead and taken to Letterkenny University Hospital.
Emmanuel’s funeral was held on Saturday, May 17, at St Mary’s Oratory, with family, friends, and members of the local community gathered to pay their last respects.
Described by Parish Priest Fr. Francis Bradley as “a young man whose warmth and charisma transcended social, ethnic and cultural lines,” Emmanuel was celebrated for his bright spirit and strong faith.
During the emotional service, symbolic items reflecting Emmanuel’s life and passions were presented at the altar, including a collage of photos from his recent work experience at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin, a certificate marking his time there, a Manchester City jersey symbolising his love for football, and a Bible that spoke to his deep-rooted Christian faith.
He was laid to rest at Cockhill Cemetery, adjacent to the oratory.
The Nigerian and Irish communities continue to mourn the loss of a promising young life cut short. Emmanuel’s death has reignited conversations about water safety and the need for greater awareness among youth during the warmer months.
Authorities have not released further details about the incident but are urging caution around open water bodies as investigations continue.
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