A boy who died after being found in a car in Waterford was named locally as Matthew Healy. 

The six-year-old boy was found unresponsive in the car near Rathmoylan Cove outside Dunmore East shortly after midnight on February 9th.

A woman in her late 30s was arrested at the scene and is being held at a Garda station in Waterford. 

Matthew was a member of Park Rangers AFC, which shared its condolences online. 

“It is with great sadness that we learned about the tragic passing of one of our players this week,” the statement said. 

“Matthew was a member of our under-seven squad and will be sadly missed by his teammates and coaches. 

“Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this unimaginably difficult time.” 

It is understood Matthew’s classmates at his national school are being offered counselling in the wake of the tragedy. 

Vigil and support in Waterford

Waterford Senator John Cummins says locals are supporting the family. 

“There’s been complete and utter disbelief that such a thing could happen in such a small, closeknit coastal community,” he said. 

“The people of Waterford will rally behind the family, that I have no doubt. 

“We’ll support them in whatever way they need, but it is really such a terrible tragedy.” 

A vigil for Matthew will take place this evening at 7pm at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity in Waterford city centre.