Boy who died in swimming tragedy remembered for leadership qualities

Olivia Kelleher

A 15-year-old boy who died after he got into difficulty while swimming in Co Meath has been remembered for his leadership qualities, with his motto in primary school being: “Don’t try to fit in when you were born to stand out.”

The body of Kofi Owusu was recovered from the River Nanny in Laytown on Friday.

The alarm was raised at around 6.15pm after Kofi disappeared from sight in the water.

The youngster completed his Junior Certificate exams just 11 days ago.

He had travelled from his home in Dundalk, Co Louth to Laytown with friends to enjoy the hot summer weather.

Kofi attended Redeemer Boys’ National School in Dundalk, Co Louth until the age of twelve. Management said that Kofi was held in high esteem at the school.

“Graduating with our Class of 2022; Kofi was a valued member of our school community, remembered for his kindness, leadership, and the positive impact he had on those around him.

"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Kofi's family, friends, the pupils and staff of Coláiste Chú Chulainn, his Redeemer Celtic teammates and coaches and all who are affected by this devastating loss.

We join the wider community in mourning and remembering a life gone far too soon. Codladh sámh Kofi.”

Meanwhile, coaches and players at Redeemer Celtic Football Club, which Kofi joined when he was nine years old, say that they are devastated at his loss. The club say that Kofi was a “fantastically talented lad.”

“A ferocious competitor every time he pulled on the Redeemer kit,Kofi was a massive part of our club, Kofi was a massive part of our lives.

"We will strive to keep Kofi’s memory within the club…We will miss you forever Big Man.”

Management at Redeemer Celtic stress that to some clubs are a service — a way in which children can get involved in socialising and fun competitions.

“And we accept that…But those that know & are involved in clubs & do it come to understand every child becomes part of something

"You wanna see them improve. You bask in the highs with them

"And hurt deeply in the lows for them..

"You protect them, encourage them, tell them off, Do everything you can to help them grow..

"Never do you think you will go from seeing a baby come to you & one day you are doing the bootlaces for them ,

"To sitting with tears in your eyes. Unable to find words.”

Meanwhile, Kofi was also a pupil of Coláiste Chú Chulainn in Dundalk. In a statement Principal Thomas Starkey said that Kofi was a very caring young man with a wide circle of friends.

“He was a diligent student and a regular awardee for excellent attendance. Kofi was also an accomplished sportsman. He was a member of the school’s under 15 soccer team and represented the school in the recent Leinster Shield final.

"Kofi was also a member of the school’s under 16 basketball team and represented the school in the All Ireland final on the 23rd of January 2025. Our sympathy and thoughts are with Kofi’s family and friends at this time.”

Guidance Counsellors and staff at the school will be helping students in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The school will be open to students and parents to support them and to offer them advice and guidance.