A YOUNG TYRONE boy who took his own life was laid to rest today.

At the funeral for Ronan Hughes (17), Fr Benny Fee said that the boy was “exploited” on social media.

It is believed the teen took his own life after being tricked into posting images on a social networking site.

Fr Fee said:

Ronan Hughes, dear people, did not take his own life but the life of Ronan was taken from him.

He added that: “somewhere in the big world today, perhaps very far from Clonoe there’s a man, a woman, or gang who are guilty of a terrible crime”.

RTÉ, which broadcast Fr Fee’s comments, reports that the funeral took place at St Patrick’s Church in Clonoe, outside Coalisland. Fr Fee’s comments in the church could be heard outside by loudspeaker.

Ronan Hughes was a student at St Joseph’s Grammar in Donoghmore.

Clonoe O’Rahillys GAA club described Ronan as “a young man full of potential and willingness to learn”.

It urged any of its players or members who are having difficulties to talk to someone.

The PSNI issued a warning to young people to take care online following Ronan Hughes’ death.

Police are liaising with a number of statutory bodies and community representatives on the issue. They have also spoken to pupils at the school about safe internet use.

If you need someone to talk to, contact:

• Samaritans 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
• Console  1800 247 247 (suicide prevention, self-harm, bereavement)
• Aware 1890 303 302 (depression, anxiety)
• Pieta House 01 601 0000 or email mary@pieta.ie - (suicide, self-harm)
• Teen-Line Ireland 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19)
• Childline 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s)

Read: Teen took his own life after being tricked into posting images online>