FAMILY and friends of a 15-year-old boy from Co Down have described their devastation following his sudden death just days after Christmas.
Aaron Laverty from Downpatrick passed away on Saturday. It is believed the teenager may have died by suicide.
Tributes have been paid to the young boy on social media following the tragedy with a fundraising page also set up in his memory.
Among the messages posted is a tribute from his heartbroken mother Jackie who described how her "beloved son Aaron Laverty has grew his wings way too soon".
She also said her "heart is shattered into a million pieces" adding that "my son will never be forgotten, he lives on in my heart forever".
A neighbour of the family last night told The Irish News of how she had set up a fundraising page to help Aaron's family with the cost of his funeral.
Nadia Correia said the family were "very thankful" after almost £3,000 had already been raised within days of the fund being established.
She also wrote on the GoFundMe page: "I'm currently fundraising for my neighbour who recently lost her beautiful son Aaron Laverty to suicide 28.12.18 -15 years old.
"I’m helping raise money in order to help with funeral costs for the family in order to relieve a stress in which this family shouldn’t have to worry about after the deeply saddening news.
"Aaron was described as 'the most kindest and loving boy ever' and it’s with deep regret that the community of Downpatrick has lost such a beautiful soul."
Friends of the teenager have also been paying tribute to Aaron on social media.
"It’s crazy what a smile can hold, yesterday we lost a loving caring lad," one pal said.
"Aaron was caring to anyone that knew him always helped with what he could help with. Everyone is missing you like crazy bro."
Another friend said: "What a cruel world we live in, rest in paradise Aaron lad, you will be missed by many lad".
SDLP assembly member Colin McGrath expressed his condolences to the teenager's family and friends.
"This is a young life tragically lost with a devastated family left behind," he said.
"This will be a sad and devastating time for his family and siblings. And for his large group of friends, there will also be much sadness."
Requiem Mass for Aaron is due to take place tomorrow at St Patrick’s Church, Downpatrick at 11am followed by interment afterwards in Struell Cemetery.
He is survived by his parents Damien and Jackie, siblings and family circle.
Please visit www.gofundme.com/funeral-costs-remembering-aaron-laverty for information on the fundraising page.
:: Anyone who needs to talk can contact Lifeline on 0808 808 8000
