Updated at 2pm
A NORTHERN IRELAND fan has died at the Euro 2016 tournament in the French city of Nice.
It’s believed Darren Rodgers, who was 25, fell from a walkway onto a rocky beach in the early hours of this morning.
Superintendent Nigel Goddard, who is heading up the PSNI team in France, told BBC Northern Ireland it was believed the man’s death was an accident and not related to any public disorder.
Tributes have been paid to the young man, who was from the Meadowvale area of Antrim.
In a statement, the North’s First and Deputy First Ministers Arlene Foster and Martin McGuinness said they wished to express their “deepest condolences” to the man’s family and friends.
“It was with great shock and sadness we learned this morning of the death of Darren Rodgers in Nice last night as the result of a tragic accident.
“The loss of a young life in these circumstances is truly heart breaking and our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this extremely difficult time.
The statement concluded:
This sad news is in stark contrast to the jovial carnival atmosphere just hours before at the game against Poland. Our fans have been fine ambassadors for the place we all call home and we encourage everyone to keep safe.
His former football club, Wakehurst, also posted a tribute on its Facebook page. Darren had played with the club until 2012, they said.
We would like to pass on our most sincere condolences to his family and friends at this tragic time.
‘Deep sadness’
The PSNI said it was aware of the case, but that it was a matter for the French authorities to investigate.
Patrick Nelson, Chief Executive of the Irish FA, also paid tribute:
“On behalf of the board, management, players and staff of the Irish Football Association, I would like to express my deep sadness at the tragic death of a Northern Ireland supporter in Nice in the early hours of this morning.
The thoughts of everyone at the Association are with his family and friends at this time.
Northern Ireland played their first game at the Euros last night, losing 1-0 to Poland in the city.
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