Mia Keevan died after ‘becoming unwell’ at the Emerge music festival in Belfast at the weekend as two other attendees were rushed to hospital
A teenage girl who died tragically after becoming unwell at the Emerge music festival has been named.
Tributes have flooded in for Mia Keevan a “bright” and “fun” girl who was “much loved girl who touched the hearts of anyone that knew her”.
Mia, from Co Tipperary in the Republic of Ireland was named locally as the young girl who passed away over the weekend. An investigation “in order to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic sudden death” is ongoing, police have said.
“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,” PSNI Belfast District Commander, Superintendent Allister Hagan said.
A Gofundme page set up to help her family has so far raised the equivalent of just under £7,000.
Sarah Roche, who organised the Gofundme, described Mia on the page: “A bright, fun and much loved girl who touched the hearts of anyone that knew her. Mia was such an outgoing person and lit up everyone 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. Any donation will make a difference and is deeply appreciated.”
Superintendent Hagan also said a number of arrests had been made at the event.
He added: “During the event it was reported that 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.
“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.”
As with all large-scale events, a range of agencies were involved in supporting the safe delivery of the festival. Police were present across the weekend, working in partnership with organisers and Belfast City Council to help ensure the safety of those attending.
“Over the course of the two day event, local police were supported by specialist officers from a range of units including from Air Support, Tactical Support, Dog Section and Roads Policing.
“Officers made seven arrests over the weekend and issued thirteen immediate disposals – three Fixed Penalty Notices, one Caution and nine Community Resolution Notices. Offences included disorderly behaviour, driving whilst unfit through excess alcohol, assault on police and possession of controlled drugs.”
Police said they received a report of the sudden death of a girl aged in her late teens on Sunday. The girl died in hospital after becoming unwell at an event in south Belfast, officers said according to BelfastLive.
The event is understood to be the Emerge dance music festival which was held at the Boucher Road Fields in Belfast on Saturday and Sunday.
Tipperary county councillor David Dunne told the Irish Independent Mia’s family would be well known in Carrick-on-Suir.
“She was in her late teens,” said Cllr Dunne. “There is a great shock and sadness in the community and our hearts go out to the family, and we will rally behind them as we always do.”
Belfast city councillor Micky Murray shared his condolences at the “utterly heartbreaking” news.
He said he had requested a meeting with council and festival representatives as he urged people not to speculate while police carry out their inquiries.
“I also wish for a full and speedy recovery for the other individuals who have been taken to the hospital and are reported to have attended the festival as well,” Mr Murray said.
“Festivals are meant to be safe spaces for people to celebrate their love of music and express themselves, no-one expects such a tragic incident to occur in this environment.
“The circumstances of the situation remain unclear, and as a representative on Belfast City Council, I have requested an urgent meeting with council officers and representatives from Emerge festival.
“I urge people not to speculate, as the police have stated that inquiries are still ongoing.”
