An investigation is under way in Andorra into the death of a Co Limerick youth.
David Noonan (16), from Lisnagry, Castleconnell, was apparently caught in a snowdrift while on a skiing holiday with his family. A member of the family of Noonan Construction, he died on Thursday night after apparently getting lost in a snowdrift and suffering severe hypothermia.
It is understood the youth became separated from his family while skiing in the resort of Andorra which borders both France and Spain. He was found under a snowdrift, and attempts to resuscitate him failed. He did not recover consciousness.
He was one of three boys and was on the mid-term break from St Mary's School in Newport. He was on holiday with his mother, Ann, brothers Kevin and Noel and an extended family group.
A local priest, Father James Minogue, said he was "such a lovely lad. This is a terrible tragedy for the family. They were very close".
The priest led prayers for the youth and his family at Mass in the parish church yesterday morning.
A close family friend described him as a very quiet, polite and easygoing boy, who was popular in the community.