Laytown Tragedy: Teenager Kofi Owusu Named Locally After Drowning in Co Meath
By ArdeePost Reporter
Laytown, Co Meath – The coastal village of Laytown is in mourning after the tragic death of 15-year-old Kofi Owusu, who drowned while swimming on Friday evening. The teenager, who was from Dundalk, Co Louth, has been remembered locally with an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes.
Emergency services were called to Laytown beach shortly after 6:15pm, following reports of a male in difficulty in the water. A search and rescue operation was swiftly launched, with the Irish Coast Guard and gardaí involved in the response.
Despite the efforts of first responders, Kofi Owusu’s body was recovered from the sea, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. His remains were later transferred to Our Lady’s Hospital in Navan, where a post-mortem examination is expected to take place.
Kofi had recently finished his Junior Cert exams at Coláiste Chú Chulainn
The school will open tomorrow, from 11am to 1pm to allow for students, staff and family who wish to meet to support one another, and remember him.
Principal Thomas Sharkey has told parents the National Educational Psychological Service of the Department of Education and Youth have been in contact with the school and will be supporting and advising staff in their efforts to assist the students.
He also paid tribute to the teen:
“This is a terrible tragedy for Kofi’s family and friends, the Coláiste Chú Chulainn
community and the local community of Dundalk who are deeply saddened by this event.
🕯️ Community in Mourning
Local representatives and community leaders have expressed deep sorrow and support for the Owusu family, describing the tragedy as a “devastating loss.”
Minister of State Thomas Byrne TD, representing Meath East, shared his condolences on social media:
“It’s devastating to hear of the tragic death of a teenage boy in Laytown. My heart goes out to his family, friends, all those who were around Laytown tonight, and all who are grieving. A summer moment has turned into an incalculable loss.”
Cllr Carol Lennon, an Independent councillor, echoed those sentiments:
“Thinking of those who were present, those who assisted with his recovery and those for whom this will trigger emotions of their own loss. It is a heartbreaking tragedy.”
Cllr Sharon Tolan also spoke of the impact on the wider community, describing a “dark cloud” that now hangs over Laytown:
“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragic accident in Laytown. Please think long and hard before posting any commentary on any social media pages.”
🛑 A Stark Summer Reminder
The tragedy has renewed public attention on water safety, particularly as the summer season begins and more young people take to Ireland’s beaches and swimming areas.
While conditions on the day have not yet been detailed by authorities, local sources say the tide was high and the beach was busy at the time of the incident.
💔 A Life Cut Short
Kofi Owusu was a popular and promising young man from Dundalk, whose sudden death has sent shockwaves through schools, sports clubs, and community groups across counties Meath and Louth. Vigils and moments of silence are expected in the coming days, as the community comes together to honour his memory.
Gardaí say that investigations are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the incident. They have also urged beachgoers and swimmers to exercise extreme caution when near open water.
📌 Support Services:
Anyone affected by the tragedy is encouraged to reach out to local mental health and bereavement support organisations, such as Pieta House, Samaritans (116 123), or Childline (1800 66 66 66).
Our thoughts are with Kofi’s family, friends, and the wider community at this incredibly difficult time.
