Patrick “Paddy” Fearon dies in fatal River Lagan rescue attempt in Belfast

Patrick “Paddy” Fearon dies in fatal River Lagan rescue attempt in Belfast

Fatal Belfast River Lagan rescue attempt death of Patrick “Paddy” Fearon – Obituary

Patrick “Paddy” Fearon, 30, tragically lost his life after bravely trying to save a person struggling in the River Lagan on May 5, 2023. Originally from Armagh, Paddy had recently moved to Belfast for a data analyst position within the health service. Despite rescuing the woman from the river, he did not survive the ordeal.

Paddy was widely admired for his selflessness, having previously saved his sister and their pets from a fire when he was just 14 years old. His death left a profound void among family and friends, especially his mother, Linda, who described him as a true joy.

In memory of Paddy’s heroic spirit, his close friend Conor Shannon has organized a fundraising campaign to support the Community Rescue Service, the volunteer team that provided life-saving efforts that night. Conor and another friend, Jonathan Rice, plan to run the Belfast City Half Marathon to raise funds for the rescue organization, which works closely with local authorities on high-risk incidents and search operations.

Paddy’s legacy of kindness continues through a named award at Ulster University’s Media Studies department, recognizing altruism inspired by his life. Donations to the fundraiser are helping equip and train the Community Rescue Service volunteers who, like Paddy, risk their lives to protect others.