Hundreds of people gathered in Buncrana, County Donegal, to attend a vigil in memory of two teenage boys who tragically lost their lives after getting into difficulty in the water. The boys, 18-year-old Matt Sibanda from Zimbabwe and 16-year-old Emmanuel Familola from Nigeria, were celebrated by the local community at a special service at St Mary’s Oratory.
Community Comes Together in the Face of Tragedy
The service, led by the Bishop of Derry, Donal McKeown, was a poignant tribute to the two young men. Bishop McKeown opened the service by welcoming the grieving families of Matt and Emmanuel. He spoke of the “real palpable sense of gloom” felt throughout the town but also praised the community’s strength, noting their resilience in the face of loss and their welcoming nature toward newcomers.Buncrana Community Support
“They are strong looking inwards and supporting one another, and strong looking outwards welcoming newcomers,” he said. “That’s a real blessing on everybody.”
Honoring the Boys’ Lives
The tragic incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon, when the Irish Coast Guard received a report that a group of people were struggling in the water near Ned’s Point. Despite the rescue efforts, Matt’s body was found later that evening, and Emmanuel, who had been rescued, passed away at the hospital the next morning. A third teenager survived the incident.Community Vigils and Healing
During the service, local leaders such as Donegal TD Charlie McConalogue and Sinn Féin’s Jack Murray paid tribute to the boys, acknowledging the tragedy’s heavy toll on the Buncrana community. “It is just so sad that their lives could be cut short so tragically,” Murray said, describing the teenagers as “talented young boys” who had become integral parts of the local community.
Emotional Tributes from Schools
Both schools that the boys attended, Scoil Mhuire and Crana College, released heartfelt tributes. Emmanuel’s principal, Evelyn McLoughlin, described him as embodying the “true ethos” of the school, known for his “warm personality” and “gentle humour.” Matt’s principal, Kevin Cooley, echoed similar sentiments, praising his respectful nature and strong academic ambitions.
Support for Families and Students
In the wake of the tragedy, both schools have pledged support for the boys’ families and their classmates. Local councillors and community leaders have also promised to assist in any way they can, ensuring that both the school community and the grieving families receive the support they need during this difficult time.
A Community in Mourning
The Buncrana vigil, marked by somber reflection and solidarity, highlighted the deep bond within the community. As local residents continue to mourn the loss of Matt and Emmanuel, the town’s commitment to supporting the boys’ families is clear. “Buncrana is a strong community that will rally around these families,” said 100% Redress councillor Joy Beard, adding that the entire area was in shock.
As the community continues to heal, the memory of these young men will live on in the hearts of those who knew them, and their tragic deaths will never be forgotten.
