Greek police have opened separate investigations into the deaths of two former St Michael’s College students who died on the Island of Ios.
The deaths of Max Wall and Andrew O’Donnell were announced in two statements by the Dublin school yesterday.
It is understood the boys were on a Sixth-Year holiday on the island, celebrating the end of their Leaving Certificate exams.
Police in Greece last night confirmed that they have opened separate investigations into their deaths.
St Michael’s announced the deaths ‘on a day of immense sadness’ for the school, while the school’s Director of Rugby said the school was facing an “almost inconceivable day of tragedy”.
Investigations
It is believed that Andrew O'Donnell went missing on Friday night or Saturday morning.
He was reported missing by a friend, and an intensive search in the area and a nearby beach was cordoned off.
Andrew’s body was found yesterday morning and showed signs of having fallen. It is unclear whether he fell from a height or whether he fell while walking.
On the same day, having been involved in the search, Max Wall became ill near the port area of the island.
He was rushed to hospital where he subsequently passed away.
Repatriation
Tom McCormack, St.Michael's College Union past president, has said plans are being made to repatriate the remains of both boys.
“It is an incredible tragedy and all the more heartrending for the parents and the boys out there in Greece,” he said.
“It is a parent’s worst nightmare."
Mr McCormach said the repatriation will "hopefully" be in the next 48 hours.
"The parents are already out there. Some of the St.Michael's parenting council, they've gone out to add their support," he said.
'Surreal'
On Newstalk Breakfast this morning, Irish Times Social Affairs Correspondent Kitty Holland said the news of the recovery of both bodies came within hours of each other.
"It was absolutely surreal," she said.
"The assumption was that they were connected in some way. Then, to hear that they were totally unconnected deaths, within 24 hours of each other, it just was beyond comprehension."
A book of condolence has been opened at St.Michael's College.
A spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said it was aware of the cases and providing consular assistance.
