Funeral details announced for teen who died at Belfast music festival
Sarah Slater
Funeral details for a Tipperary teenager who died at a musical festival in Belfast over the weekend and was described as having “big dreams and even bigger heart” have been announced.
Mia Keevan from Carrick on Suir, Co Tipperary, had been attending the Emerge Music Festival in Boucher Fields, South Belfast, when she became suddenly unwell.
She was taken to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment, but died a short time later.
Two other people were taken to hospital after also becoming ill at the same two-day event, which attracted 40,000 music fans.
A woman in her 30s remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition, while a teenage boy has received treatment and is expected to make a full recovery.
Details of her funeral arrangements have been announced on the funeral website RIP.ie, with her family describing her as their “beautiful Mia” who passed away on August 24th.
The announcement continues: “She had big dreams and an even bigger heart. Her infectious laugh, feisty attitude, and ability to make anyone smile will never be forgotten.”
Her death notice adds that Mia will be “forever loved and sadly missed” by her mother Debbie, sisters Kyah, Jade and Sophia also Philly who held a special place in her life; her grandparents Marie and Eddie, Angela and Noel, and Tonnie; her boyfriend Jack, sisters’ partners Jamie and Nathan, best friends Ella, Jayden and Keeley, aunts, uncles, extended family and her wide circle of friends.
Ms Keevan was predeceased by her father Alan and aunt Jacinta. Her remains will repose at Walsh's Funeral Home, Carrick on Suir, on Friday, 29th August, from 5pm until 6.30pm, with a Funeral Mass on Saturday at 10.30am in St Nicholas' Church, followed by burial afterwards in St Mary's cemetery.
The family requested that mourners attending Mia's funeral wear light/bright coloured clothing.
PSNI Belfast District Commander, Superintendent Allister Hagan, confirmed that during the techno music event, 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,” Supt Hagan said in a statement.
“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.”
He added that over the course of the two-day event, local police were supported by specialist officers from a range of units, including air support, tactical support, dog section and roads policing.
Supt Hagan outlined that officers made seven arrests over the weekend and issued 13 immediate disposals, including three fixed penalty notices, one caution and nine community resolution notices.
Police said enquiries are ongoing into Ms Keevan’s death.
In a statement, Belfast City Council said it is "deeply saddened" by the death of the young woman and that it sends its condolences to her family and friends.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help her family by Sarah Roche, Ms Keevan's friend, which aims to raise €16,000.
On the site, Ms Roche described Ms Keevan as a “bright, fun and much loved girl” who touched the hearts of anyone who knew her.
Ms Roche continued: "Mia was such an outgoing person and lit up every 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.
