Community Mourns: Tribute to Young Matthew Healy

Condolences pour in for the young boy tragically found deceased in Waterford, identified locally as Matthew Healy, as the community mourns his untimely passing.

The body of six-year-old Matthew was discovered near a coastal cove in the Rathmoylan area near Dunmore East shortly after midnight on Friday.

Following the discovery, a woman in her 30s was apprehended. Reports suggest that authorities were alerted to the scene in the Ballymacaw coastal region, where both the boy and the woman were found. Allegedly, the child was inside a vehicle while the woman was on the roadway.

A post-mortem examination was scheduled to take place at Waterford University Hospital, while the woman remains in custody.

Tributes have flooded in for Matthew, with the Park Rangers Amateur Football Club, situated in Faithlegg, Waterford, mourning the loss of their U7 squad member.

The club expressed their deep sadness in a social media post, remembering Matthew fondly and extending heartfelt condolences to his family and teammates during this incredibly challenging time.

Additionally, the Department of Education confirmed that the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) was offering support to staff and the community at Matthew’s school.

In a statement, Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan of Waterford and Lismore acknowledged the unimaginable tragedy of losing a child and announced a prayer vigil at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity in Waterford, inviting the community to unite in support and compassion for those affected by this heartbreaking loss.

Local Sinn Féin councillor Jim Griffin conveyed the shock and disbelief felt within the Rathmoylan community, emphasizing the typically serene nature of the area and expressing solidarity with the grieving family.

As the community grapples with this devastating loss, the vigil aims to provide solace and strength during this time of profound sorrow, fostering unity and compassion among neighbors and friends.