The remains of Shea McCabe – a father-of-one in his 20s from Pomeroy, Co Tyrone – were recovered from the River Lee in Co Cork following a nine-day search prompted by reports he had entered the water.
A multi-agency operation was launched after the incident near Brian Boru Bridge on December 18, which Mr McCabe’s family has described as a “freak accident”.
A freak accident turned into our worst nightmare
Following the recovery of Mr McCabe’s body, his family launched a fundraiser to help ease the cost of transporting his remains home as well as making a donation to the agencies who helped find him.
Writing on her GoFundMe page, Shea’s sister Stacey said: “We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Shea McCabe has sadly passed away.
“A freak accident turned into our worst nightmare, his body was lovingly recovered thanks to the incredible efforts of the rescue services in Cork. We are deeply grateful to every person involved in bringing him back to us.
“Shea’s body now needs to be brought home from Cork to Pomeroy, and we want nothing more than to lay him to rest with dignity and love.
Shea McCabe
News Catch Up – Monday 29 December
“The costs of transport and funeral arrangements have placed a heavy financial burden on the family at a time when we are already struggling with overwhelming grief.
“This tragedy comes after an incredibly difficult period for the family.
“Our family lost Shea’s brother Jason in October 2023 and our mother just seven months later in May 2024. Coping with so much loss in such a short space of time has been unbearable for our family.”
Ms McCabe said money raised would go towards transport and funeral costs, as well as support for Mr McCabe’s three-year-old son Cahan.
“Any donation, no matter how small, will help ease the financial pressure so our family can focus on grieving and honouring Shea’s memory,” she added.
“If you are unable to donate, please keep Shea and our family in your thoughts and prayers and share this page.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, support, and compassion.”
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The search and rescue operation for Shea came to an end on Boxing Day after Crosshaven Coast Guard confirmed his body had been recovered.
“A nine-day multi-agency search has this afternoon been stood down when Mallow Search and Rescue detected an image on their side scan sonar,” said a spokesperson.
“Mallow Search and Rescue divers dived on the location of interest and recovered one person from the water. This was a huge team effort and has not stopped until we had closure.
“We would like to thank the countless members of the public for their support along the way and as always all the agencies involved coming together to draw this to a close as quickly and safely as possible.
“Our condolences to the persons family at this very sad time.”