A local family and community have been left devastated after 19-year-old Connor Marron from Ahoghill died in an accident over the weekend.
it is understood the young Ballymena man had travelled to London with friends to attend an event, but tragically lost his life when he may have been struck by a train at Hornsey Railway Station in the early hours of yesterday morning, Sunday 2 January.
A former pupil of St Louis Grammar School in Ballymena, Connor was well-known through his involvement with the local GAA game, and competed in the game of snooker, being crowned the Northern Ireland under 16 snooker champion seven years ago, at the age of just 12.
A number of poignant tributes were paid to second year Ulster University student, who was described as a “well-mannered young gentleman”.
Rodger Casements GAC paid tribute saying:
“This morning we received the devastating news of the death of one of our young footballers, Connor Marron.
“Connor represented Sean Stinsons and Casements at underage level and enjoyed great success as a player and team captain through the juvenile ranks. In 2015 he captained the Sean Stinson’s Óg Sport team, which competed in the All-Ireland Series in Donegal. Last year he made his debut for Casements senior reserves and would have no doubt gone on to play at senior level.
“Son of former chairman Fergal, Connor was often found at O'Cahan Park alongside his father, friends and teammates. Along with football, snooker was Connors other passion. He excelled at this, winning numerous tournaments including the U16 Northern Ireland Snooker Championship at age 12
“We offer our sincerest condolences to Connors parents Fergal and Sharon, his little sister Caoimhe and the entire Marron and Doherty families
“A Thiarna, deán trócaire air.”
A Facebook community group ‘Photos of Portglenone’ said they were “shocked and saddened” to hear of the Ahoghill man’s death.
“When you met Connor he always had a big smile on his face, he loved sport and had played for both Sean Stinsons and Casements GAC at underage level, and from all accounts often captaining his team, he also loved to play a game of snooker.
“Only recently while I was cutting a hedge, Connor was helping his father Fergal clean the neighbours roof, as he sat on the roof with that smile he waved over to me. Connor was a well mannered young gentleman, a great sportsman and a wonderful Son, Brother and Grandson.”
The Secretary of the Northern Ireland Billiards and Snooker Association, Joe McGonnell, also extended sympathies.
“Northern Ireland Billiards and Snooker Association are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news of Connor Marron and extend their deepest sympathies to his family, our hearts go out to them in this time of sorrow. May the Lord give them strength to get through this difficult time.”
On Sunday evening WJ O’Donnell & Sons Funeral Directors published notice of the much-loved local lad’s death:
“Marron (127A Loughbeg Road, Ahoghill) 2nd January 2022 (suddenly as a result of an accident) Connor (aged 19 years) RIP, beloved son of Fergal and Sharon, much loved brother of Caoimhe, and loving grandson of Bernie and Margaret.
“Deeply regretted by his sorrowing father, mother, sister, grandparents and all his family and friends who loved him so much. Sacred heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul.”