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14 Dec 2025

Vigil to be held in Derry this evening in memory of Buncrana tragedy victims

The vigil will be held at the Famine statues at Sainsbury's on Monday, May 12 at 6pm

Vigil to be held in Derry this evening in memory of Buncrana tragedy victims

Matt Sibanda (left) and Emmanuel Familola (right) sadly died in a tragic accident on Saturday.

Reporter:

Staff Reporter

12 May 2025 12:33 PM

Email:

news@derrynow.com

United Against Racism, Derry and North West will hold a short vigil in memory of the two young men who tragically lost their lives in Buncrana at the weekend.
Emmanuel Familola and Matt Sibanda tragically died after getting into difficulty in Lough Swilly on Saturday.
Spokesperson Davy McAuley says the group are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events: “The incredible weather over the weekend provided an opportunity for young people who have made their lives here to enjoy the beauty and natural wonders of Buncrana. 
"Their tragic deaths have brought a community together and serves as a stark reminder that no matter who we are or where we come from, we are all the same. 
"We face adversity together and we unite in basic solidarity remembering the old mantra ' an injury to one is an injury to all. ' 
"The coming together of the community to assist the emergency services in their heroic attempts to rescue the young men is testament to this. 
"UAR would like to pay tribute to the RNLI crews based in Malin Head for their bravery and brilliance. 
"We ask people to join us at the Famine Statues by Sainsbury's on Monday, May 12 at 6pm to remember the victims of this tragedy. 
"We also will reflect on those who have lost their lives in the Foyle and all those who have perished at sea while trying to escape war and famine. 
"We will conclude proceedings by placing some flowers into the Foyle as an act of remembrance." 

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