IOS – A young man in his early 20s from Limerick, Ireland, died after a fall while on vacation on the Greek island of Ios, The Independent reported on July 12, adding that the man is a talented GAA [Gaelic Athletic Association] player.

The tragedy occurred on the morning of July 11 and “local Independent councillor Emmett O’Brien said he knew the man personally and was shocked to hear the news of his death yesterday,” The Independent reported.

O’Brien described the late young man “as ‘a very popular lad’ and said there was ‘utter devastation’ in the area following the news of his death,” The Independent reported.

“It has sent a shock wave through the area. I heard he had been on holidays with a group when the incident happened,” O’Brien told The Independent.

He noted that the man “was hugely loved and well known, especially in hurling circles,” The Independent reported, adding that “it is understood the man was studying in third level education and had worked part time in a local cafe where everyone got to know him.”

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs said that “it is aware of the case and ‘stands ready to provide consular assistance,’” The Independent reported.