A teenage girl who died tragically after becoming unwell at the Emerge music festival has been named.
Tributes have flooded in for Mia Keevan a “bright” and “fun” girl who was “much loved girl who touched the hearts of anyone that knew her”.
Mia, from Co Tipperary in the Republic of Ireland was identified locally as the young girl who passed away over the weekend. An investigation “in order to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic sudden death” is ongoing, police have said.
“Police will continue to work closely with event organisers and the licensing authority to ensure that events remain safe and enjoyable for all of those who attend,” PSNI Belfast District Commander, Superintendent Allister Hagan said.
A GoFundMe page established to support her family has so far raised the equivalent of just under £7,000 , the Mirror reports.
Sarah Roche, who organised the GoFundMe, described Mia on the page: “A bright, fun and much loved girl who touched the hearts of anyone that knew her. Mia was such an outgoing person and lit up everyone room she walked into.
“Her laughter and warmth will never be forgotten by those lucky enough to have known her. At this difficult time we are coming together to support Mia’s family with the unexpected costs they face and to give them space to grieve without added financial worry. Any donation will make a difference and is deeply appreciated.”
Superintendent Hagan also revealed a number of arrests had been made at the event. He added: “During the event it was reported that a 17-year-old girl had become unwell.
“Sadly, she subsequently died in hospital. Police remained on the event site until Monday afternoon, 25th August. An investigation in order to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic sudden death of this young person is ongoing, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.
“Police will continue to work closely with event organisers and the licensing authority to ensure that events remain safe and enjoyable for all of those who attend.”
As with all major events, a variety of agencies were involved in supporting the secure operation of the festival.
Officers were present throughout the weekend, working alongside organisers and Belfast City Council to help guarantee the safety of attendees.
“Over the course of the two day event, local police were supported by specialist officers from a range of units including from Air Support, Tactical Support, Dog Section and Roads Policing.
“Officers made seven arrests over the weekend and issued thirteen immediate disposals – three Fixed Penalty Notices, one Caution and nine Community Resolution Notices. Offences included disorderly behaviour, driving whilst unfit through excess alcohol, assault on police and possession of controlled drugs.”
Police have reported the sudden death of a teenage girl who fell ill at a music festival in south Belfast, according to BelfastLive. The young woman tragically passed away in hospital after attending the Emerge dance music festival held at Boucher Road Fields over the weekend.
David Dunne, a county councillor for Tipperary, told the Irish Independent that the victim’s family is well-known in Carrick-on-Suir. “She was in her late teens,” Cllr Dunne stated.
“There is a great shock and sadness in the community and our hearts go out to the family, and we will rally behind them as we always do.”
Belfast city councillor Micky Murray expressed his condolences over the “utterly heartbreaking” news. He has called for a meeting with council and festival representatives, urging people not to speculate while police conduct their investigations.
“I also wish for a full and speedy recovery for the other individuals who have been taken to the hospital and are reported to have attended the festival as well,” Mr Murray added.
“Festivals are meant to be safe spaces for people to celebrate their love of music and express themselves, no-one expects such a tragic incident to occur in this environment.
“The circumstances of the situation remain unclear, and as a representative on Belfast City Council, I have requested an urgent meeting with council officers and representatives from Emerge festival.
“I urge people not to speculate, as the police have stated that inquiries are still ongoing.”
