'Healthy' young boy dies after Irish bouncy castle tragedy as tributes flow

A seven-year-old boy has died after taking ill while playing on a bouncy castle last weekend.

Young Antony Perissato de Aguiar, who was living in Laois with his family and attending school locally, took ill while playing on a bouncy castle.

His family have confirmed he was "healthy and full of joy playing in a bouncy castle on a beautiful day when he suffered from a sudden heart condition."

They said: "We are devastated to announce that our little man Antony Perissato de Aguiar, 7, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully at the Crumlin Hospital on June 4 with his loving parents."

An RIP.ie notice for the youngster, whose parents are Brazilian, said: "Dad, Raphael, and Mom, Karla, are very blessed to have Antony as their child and he will be forever missed by his little brother, Gianlucca, his cousin, Isaac, his beloved grandparents, Sandra, Rogerio, Maeli, Carlos and Solange, and his many friends from our Brazilian community, his school, Scoil Bhride and his after-school, After the Bell.

The community in Portlaoise and beyond has been left reeling from the young boy's death with tributes and condolences being shared with his family from far and wide. 

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Antony's teacher from Scoil Bhride, wrote: "Sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your beautiful boy Antony. Antony was such a kind, gentle and happy boy whose smile lit up the classroom each day. Although our class will never be the same without Antony, we will always remember him, his beautiful smile and the amazing memories that we made as a class in Senior Infants. Antony was a friend to everybody and showed great kindness and care to all. A special angel who will never be forgotten."

A second person wrote: "I'm very sorry for your loss. I'm sure Antony is dancing with the angels in heaven today and will watch over you from there. May God give strength to the whole family."

Another message of condolence read: "There are no words to express how heartbroken I am for you all. May all the wonderful memories you all have of Antony be of comfort to you at this very sad time. Rest in Peace little angel."

A local Laois woman wrote: "May God give you all strength to cope with this devastating loss and may Antony look after his mammy, daddy and family. The brightest star in the sky."

Funeral Arrangements

Reposing at Keegan's Funeral Home, Portlaoise on Sunday, June 8 from 2pm to 4pm with prayers at 3pm. A private cremation will take place on Monday.