Young Man, 28, Drowns in Kerry River While Retrieving Flip-Flops

UPDATE: A tragic drowning incident occurred in Killarney, Co Kerry, at approximately 3:30 PM on August 12, 2025, claiming the life of 28-year-old Padraig O’Rahilly. The young man was swimming in the River Flesk when he ventured into deep water to retrieve a pair of flip-flops, not realizing the perilous conditions.

Witnesses report that Padraig, known locally as “Paudie,” was wading with a friend when the footwear slipped off his foot. Both men, reportedly unable to swim, encountered difficulties in the deep waters. While his friend managed to escape, Paudie was swept away, prompting cries for help from nearby children playing at the Killarney Athletic Soccer Club pitches.

Emergency services, including paramedics and local firefighters, swiftly responded to the scene after a female friend raised the alarm. Despite the efforts to revive him, Padraig was pronounced dead shortly after being pulled from the river. Authorities are treating the incident as a tragic accident, and a post-mortem examination will be conducted.

A spokesperson for the Garda stated, “Gardai and emergency services were alerted to an incident where a male aged in his 20s encountered difficulty in the water.” Investigations are currently underway, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

The local community is reeling from the loss of Paudie, who was well-liked and active in the community, playing football with the Glenflesk GAA club. Vice-president Derry Healy expressed profound sadness, saying, “He was a lovely man and a good worker. This is a tragedy for his family and the entire community.”

This incident highlights the urgent need for safety awareness as people flock to waterways during hot weather. Junior Agricultural Minister Michael Healy-Rae emphasized the importance of caution, noting that “most beaches have lifeguards, but these services are not available at rivers and lakes.” He urged the public to be vigilant and aware of sudden changes in water depth.

As the community mourns, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with swimming in natural bodies of water. Authorities encourage all individuals to prioritize safety and be cautious when enjoying recreational activities in rivers and lakes.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.