LISTEN: North Belfast man, Richie Molloy, dies in 'tragic incident' in Turkey, with two friends in critical condition

By Q Radio News

A North Belfast man who died in a tragic incident in Turkey on Saturday has been named as Richie Molloy.

The circumstances behind Mr Molloy's death remain unclear.

The 33 year old's family have now travelled out to Turkey to bring his body home.

Two other men, who have been named locally as Declan Carson and Aaron Callaghan (both from North Belfast), remain critically ill in hospital.

Their relatives have now also travelled to the country.

The Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund is providing assistance to the family of Richard Molloy, and are helping to bring his body home.

Colin Bell from the organisation told Q Radio about the support they were providing.

Sinn Fein MP John Finucane said three men from North Belfast were involved in the incident.

John Finucane

It is believed one of the men died while the other two men were receiving treatment in hospital.

One of the men still in hospital has been named as Aaron Callaghan, a former player for St James’ Swifts Football Club.

A message of support on the club’s Twitter page read: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to former first team player Aaron Callaghan today.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to former first team player Aaron Callaghan today.

Everyone at the club are thinking of you during this time and we have both you are your friends within our hearts 💛 pic.twitter.com/qReauC3yNl

— St. James Swifts (@stjamesswifts) October 4, 2020

“Everyone at the club are thinking of you during this time and we have both you (and) your friends within our hearts.”

Mr Finucane said: “We are devastated to learn of a tragic incident involving three North Belfast men in Turkey.

“One of the men has passed away, while the other two are currently receiving treatment in hospital. Our community will rally around the families at this difficult time.

Belfast deputy mayor, SDLP councillor Paul McCusker, tweeted: “Worrying and devastating news coming from Turkey regarding three local North Belfast men.

“At this stage we know one male has died and two others are critical.

“As a North Belfast community all our thoughts and prayers are with you all including the families.”

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs said it was also "aware of the case and providing consular assistance".