A County Derry community has been plunged into grief after a horrific road accident claimed the life of a teenage GAA star. 

Karl McAuley, from Strawmore Road, Draperstown, died after his grey Seat Leon left the road outside Tobermore at around 2.40pm on Saturday.  It is understood the teenager was on his way to buy Christmas presents when the accident occurred just a few miles from his home. 

A rising GAA star, the 17-year-old was tipped for a bright future and played both hurling and football for his club, Saint Colm’s, Ballinascreen. 

The talented teen attended Saint Colm’s High School, Draperstown, before training to be an electrician.   A small service of remembrance was held at the school yesterday as staff and pupils tried to come to terms with the teenager’s death. 

“It’s unbelievable,” said Principal Roisin McKenna.  “It’s so devastating because he was such a fabulous fellow. Every descriptive word you could think of, you would associate with him.  “He was just a gentleman in every respect in his dealings with staff and pupils and very popular within the school community.

“He was caring and considerate and a mentor to younger children. He was always eager to help others. His passing has left a big hole.”  The teenager’s mother Rosaleen is a career’s advisor at the school. 

“The grief is close and immediate,” added Mrs McKenna.  “ His peers are still at the school in our upper sixth year and they are finding it most difficult this morning. Our heart goes out to his parents, I don’t know how anyone could come to terms with it at all.”  News of Karl’s death filtered through to his home club as mourners gathered at the St Colm’s complex for a meal after the funeral of club secretary Danny Scullion’s mother.   Mr Scullion said the club has been gripped by grief.  “Karl played a central position and was the leader of the pack,” he said.

“He was popular and entertaining.”

The Ulster Hurling Minor Championship between Ballycran and Middleton, which was due to be held in Draperstown on Sunday, was cancelled as a mark of respect.   Karl is survived by his parents Danny and Rosaleen and brothers Gavin and Shaun.  Requiem Mass will take place in Draperstown tomorrow.