Irish boy aged 10 dies after a 'heart attack' at school
John Joe Toner, from Co Armagh, suffered a suspected heart attack at his primary school
A 10-year-old boy has died in hospital four days after suffering a suspected heart attack at his primary school.
John Joe Toner, from Co Armagh, fell ill at St Malachy’s Primary School in Ballymoyer on Friday last week.
Staff rushed to help the schoolboy, who is said to have had a pre-existing heart condition, and are understood to have performed first aid before paramedics arrived.
John Joe's parents Maria and Cormac had been keeping a bedside vigil but a church spokesman said they were given the devastating news he could not be saved last night.
Masses have been held at St Malachy’s Church in the area over the past few days.
The spokesman told Belfast Live: 'Fr Murphy together with the people of the Parish and beyond wish to extend their sympathies and heartfelt Prayers to Maria, Cormac and all the Toner and McParland families on the sad passing of their son John Joe.
'The Pray Vigils that have been held will now be the greatest of comfort and support to all John Joe’s family and friends in the coming days.
'May the Holy Family and the Divine Mercy Bless and comfort them in their tragic and sad loss.
'Prayers will be held tomorrow (Wednesday) in St Malachys Church Ballymoyer from 7pm to support the family all are welcome.'