A sad incident happened in Buncrana, Ireland, where a 16-year-old Nigerian boy, Emmanuel Familola, drowned while swimming in a river. He has now been laid to rest.

The tragic event took place on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Emmanuel was swimming with two other teens when they all got into trouble in the water.

People nearby noticed the situation and quickly called emergency services. A rescue team was sent to search for the boys.

Reports later confirmed that Emmanuel’s body was found in the waters near County Donegal. The teenagers had been swimming in Lough Swilly when the trouble began.

His body was discovered between Ned’s Point and Fahan, close to the town of Buncrana. It was taken to Letterkenny University Hospital after a large rescue mission that involved both air and sea teams.

The alarm was raised around 4 p.m. when the teens, aged between 16 and 19, got into difficulty while swimming. One of them managed to swim back to shore. Another was rescued and taken to the hospital in very serious condition.

Emmanuel’s funeral was held on Saturday, May 17, at St Mary’s Oratory in Buncrana. Many family members and friends came to say their goodbyes.

During the service, the priest, Fr Francis Bradley, spoke warmly about Emmanuel. He said the young boy had a kind and friendly personality that brought people together, no matter where they came from.

To remember Emmanuel’s life, several meaningful items were placed at the altar. These included a photo collage from his recent work experience at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin and a certificate he was meant to receive that week.

A Manchester City football jersey was also included, showing his love for the sport and the team. His Bible was brought forward too, symbolizing his strong faith.

After the funeral service, Emmanuel was laid to rest at Cockhill Cemetery, next to the church.