Rhodes parasail accident: Tributes to teens killed and hurt
- Published
Tributes have been paid to two British children who died, and another who was seriously injured, in a parasailing accident on the Greek Island of Rhodes.
Cousins Michael Connelly (known as Mikey), 13, and Jessica Hayes, 15, from Northamptonshire, died on Wednesday.
Michael's brother James, 15, was seriously injured when their parachute rope snapped.
The family said they were "devastated" by the loss which leaves a "hole in our family that will never be filled".
Two people connected with the parasailing speedboat were arrested.
The boys' school said called the news "tragic" and said it had "shocked the community".
The teenagers were on holiday with their parents when the accident happened at about noon local time near Lindos.
Jessica and Michael died while James was said to be in a "serious condition with multiple injuries" in a hospital on the island.
A spokesperson for the family said: "We are devastated by the loss of Mikey and Jessica. Mikey was an incredibly charismatic, loving and popular boy, and the world is a poorer place without him in it.
"He has left with his beautiful cousin Jessica, who was adored by everyone who knew her and their loss leaves a hole in our family that will never be filled."
Michelle Newman, Principal at Kinsgwood Secondary Academy in Corby, attended by Michael and James, said: "We are all incredibly saddened by this tragic incident and the passing of one of our much-loved pupils, Michael Connelly, and his cousin Jessica.
"Mikey was a wonderful pupil, a friend to us all, and a fantastically positive member of our school community.
"They will be dearly missed by all who knew them, and our thoughts are with Mikey and Jessica's families, including Mikey's brother James, and friends at this difficult time."
Michael was also a member of Genesis Theatre Schools, based in Corby.
Posting a tribute on its Facebook page, the company wrote: "We are heartbroken at the news that pupil Mikey Connelly has died yesterday in a tragic accident on holiday in Greece... Along with his cousin, and his brother is currently fighting for his life."
They described the 13-year-old as "a rare exceptional talent in acting and so, so funny", adding it was an "unfathomable loss".
A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesman said: "We are supporting the family of two British people following their death in Rhodes, and are in contact with the Greek authorities."
Related Topics
- Published
- 1 day ago