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3rd July 2023
11:36am BST
Two Irish students from the same school who had just completed exams passed away in Greece at the weekend.
The teenagers have both been named as Andrew O'Donnell, 18, and Max Wall, 18. They died in separate incidents on the island of Ios.
RTÉ News reports that Andrew is understood to have gone missing on Friday (30 June), before his body was discovered in a rocky area over the weekend.
Max is then said to have died in a separate incident on the island on Sunday.
Both teens were pupils at St. Michael's College in Ballsbridge in Dublin and had completed their Leaving Cert exams last month.
The school community is in complete shock following deaths, with St. Michael's College paying tribute to Andrew and Max with a pair of statements.
"Max was a constant source of positivity, encouragement, and fun for all of those around him. He was extremely popular with staff and students alike, and a fantastic supporter of our teams during the various cup campaigns (as well as a great brother to past pupil, Charlie)," the school said.
"Our thoughts are with Max’s family at this awful time and with his friends who have experienced such shocking loss over the last 24 hours."
Andrew was also remembered by the school, who described him as being "not only a popular classmate and friend, but a proud and committed member of our football team".
"He was kind to those around him, honest in all of his endeavours, and a great brother. Andrew will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him," St. Michael's College added.
Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris also paid tribute to the teens, writing: "Devastating news emerging from Greece. Thinking of the families and friends of Andrew and Max and all Leaving Cert students abroad in Greece who were enjoying holidays after exams and are now encountering such shock and pain and grief.
"I know we all hold them in our hearts tonight."
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