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Tragic Loss: Boy Dies After Broken Arm at School
24 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Eight-year-old Matthew Breen died after fracturing his arm at school.
- He was admitted for surgery but became unwell and stopped breathing.
- His mother described him as the 'sweetest little boy'.
An eight-year-old boy, Matthew Breen, has died in County Wicklow following a broken arm sustained at school. Matthew, from Rathnew, passed away on November 17, with his mother Ciara sharing a poignant tribute to her son. He had been admitted to hospital on November 6 for surgery on two fractures.
Shortly after admission, Matthew began to feel unwell, experiencing vomiting and breathing difficulties. He was prescribed medication, including steroids, but his condition worsened. A referral to a lung specialist was scheduled for the following Tuesday, however, Matthew's health deteriorated significantly on the Monday.
Tragically, Matthew stopped breathing and was urgently transported to Crumlin Hospital in Dublin. Despite being placed on a life support machine, he could not be saved. His mother described him as the "sweetest little boy" who was deeply loved by his siblings and all who knew him.
