A solemn scene unfolded on the Greek Island of Ios on Tuesday as hundreds of students formed a guard of honour to bid farewell to two Irish teenagers who tragically lost their lives over the weekend. Andrew O’Donnell and Max Wall, both 18 years old, were among a group of up to 90 classmates from St Michael’s College in Ballsbridge, Dublin, celebrating the completion of their Leaving Certificate.
The devastating turn of events began on Friday when Andrew went missing after a night out. Tragically, his body was discovered on rocky terrain two days later. Shortly thereafter, Max was found unconscious near the harbour and succumbed to his condition. It had been known that Max had pre-existing heart issues.
Yesterday an estimated 1,000 people, including classmates, friends, and students from other schools, gathered at the port on the Greek Island of Ios to pay their respects as the bodies of Andrew and Max were transported to Athens for post-mortem examinations. As a mark of reverence, a guard of honour formed by hundreds of students accompanied the remains.
Tom McCormack, a former president of St Michael’s College Union, revealed that around 60 classmates, along with the families of the teenagers, embarked on the journey to Athens, with members of the parents’ association providing support. Prior to the ferry departure, yellow roses, symbolising friendship, were placed on the coffins in a poignant tribute.
On Monday night some students who had returned from Greece gathered for a prayer service in the school chapel. Another service took place on Tuesday evening and was streamed online, allowing those unable to attend in person to participate in the commemoration.
In remembrance of Andrew and Max, St Michael’s College has opened separate books of condolence for each teenager. Floral tributes have also been placed at the school gates, serving as a poignant reminder of the immense loss felt by the community.
