Tributes have been paid to a teenager who “brought joy to those lucky enough to have known him”, who died in a car crash at the weekend. Órán McConville, 18, and from Rathfriland, Co Down, was in the front of a car which crashed near Hilltown on Saturday. Police received a report of a grey coloured Volkswagen Golf which had been involved in a collision on the Kilkeel Road in Hilltown at around 2am. Emergency services attended but Mr McConville was pronounced dead at the scene. Police confirmed the 18-year-old driver of the car was arrested and asked for witnesses to come forward. Mr McConville’s sad death comes six weeks after the passing of his father, Paddy on February 21, and 16 years since the heartbreaking loss of his sister, Rachael, Irish Mirror reported. A spokesperson for the Drumgath GAA Club, which he played for, said: “Órán was so much more than a young man- he was a bright light in our community. Kind, gentle, full of humour, and always up for a chat, Órán had that rare ability to make everyone feel at ease in his company. “He had time for people, young and old, and brought joy to those lucky enough to have known him. Whether it was on the football pitch or in the heart of the community, Órán carried himself with warmth, respect, and quiet charm. “From the moment he could walk, Órán was part of our club - first as a supporter, watching his older siblings, Rachael and Shéa, represent Drumgath and later as a player in his own right. “Órán also proudly played schools’ football with St. Mark’s, where he was equally respected for his commitment, sportsmanship, and team spirit. Órán was a teammate everyone could count on- his legacy on the pitch will never be forgotten." "He was a brilliant young volunteer, always willing to lend a hand. He gave his energy and enthusiasm to our Cúl Camps, where he was loved by all the children- always patient, full of fun, and a brilliant role model. Last year, he travelled to Kenya with St. Mark’s on a life-changing volunteer trip, showcasing his compassion far beyond his own community. "Órán’s sudden death has left our entire club and wider community in deep shock and sorrow. A young man full of promise, kindness, and spirit, Órán had so much life ahead of him. He was a cherished friend to many, a teammate, and a beloved son and brother.” Mr McConville was a past pupil at St Mark’s High School in Warrenpoint which also expressed devastation at his untimely passing. A school spokesperson said: "Órán left St. Mark’s last August after completing his A-Levels. He was incredibly hard working and had a drive to be successful, which he achieved in every aspect of his life. "Órán represented our school with pride on the Gaelic football field and soccer pitch returning many trophies to our cabinet over the years. In his final year in school he was part of the successful U18 soccer team who won the South Down Cup, the first time in our school’s history. He loved pulling on the purple jersey, just like his brother and daddy. "Órán was quite simply a gentleman who will be sorely missed. He was fiercely proud of his purple blood! Our thoughts and prayers are with Órán’s mummy Amanda and his brother Shéa, his wider family circle and his dear friends." Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances of the collision, and would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash-cam or other footage which could assist with their enquiries. You can call 101 and quote reference CW 109 05/04/25 or report online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ .