LAST UPDATE | 24 May

TRIBUTES HAVE BEEN paid to 18-year-old Luke Silles, who passed away yesterday following a swimming accident last week. 

The young man was a sixth year student at CBS The Green in Tralee.

Last Saturday, Luke was reported to have been enjoying the good weather Fenit in Co Kerry when an accident left him unconscious and he was pulled from the water. He was brought to hospital where he was in critical condition until yesterday, when he passed away. 

His local club, Ballymacelligott GAA, said that a “dark cloud” had set in yesterday with his passing.

“Luke was sporting, witty, smart and roguish. He was called early by our creator at just 18 years of age,” the club said. “His family and our club have been denied a great man.”

A statement from CBS The Green said: “Luke was a shining light in our school community – a kind-hearted, thoughtful, and gentle young man who brought warmth and positivity to those around him.

“Luke will be missed deeply by his friends, his classmates, and all the staff here at CBS The Green. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, and we will remember him with great affection and sorrow.”

The school said that their thoughts are with Luke’s parents and his brother and sister at this time, and that they would be at hand to offer support and care. “Today, we grieve together as one. We will honour Luke’s memory with compassion, unity, and love.”

On Monday, his school had described Luke as “a valued part of our school family — his kindness, good humour, and bright spirit leave a mark on everyone he meets.”

In a statement to The Kerryman earlier this week, Luke’s father Tony Silles said that the family were “overwhelmed” with the love and support they had received while Luke was in hospital.