Kaylee Black was a 13-year-old girl who loved football and played as a goalkeeper for Crusaders Strikers FC U13 squad in Belfast, Northern Ireland. She was a talented and valued member of her team, who had just lifted their league trophy a week before her death. She was also a fan of Newcastle United FC and had a beautiful smile that lit up the room. But on April 30, 2023, Kaylee’s life came to an abrupt and shocking end. What was the cause of her death? How did her family, friends, teammates, and coaches cope with the loss? And what can be done to prevent such tragedies from happening again?
Contents
The Sudden Death of Kaylee Black
According to The Irish News, Kaylee was reported missing on Sunday, April 30, 2023, and was later found dead in Newtownabbey, a town near Belfast. The police attended the scene of the sudden death and said that there were no suspicious circumstances. However, the official cause of death was not given by the authorities or the family.
The news of Kaylee’s death spread quickly on social media and sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from her loved ones and the football community. Many people expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of such a young and promising life. Some also speculated that Kaylee might have taken her own life, as there were rumors of suicide circulating online. However, these rumors were not confirmed by any official source.
The Tributes and Support for Kaylee’s Family
Kaylee’s family received an overwhelming amount of support and condolences from various people and organizations who knew or admired Kaylee. Her football club, Crusaders Strikers FC, issued a statement on their Facebook page saying that they were “deeply saddened” by Kaylee’s passing and that their thoughts and prayers were with her family, friends, teammates, coaches, and everyone who loved her. They also dedicated their win over Derry City to Kaylee and wore black armbands and t-shirts with her photo during the match.
Kaylee’s favorite team, Newcastle United FC, also paid tribute to her on Twitter and said that they were “heartbroken” to hear of her death. They posted a photo of Kaylee wearing their jersey and holding a sign that said “Toon Army”. They also sent their condolences to her family and friends.
The Irish Football Association (IFA) also expressed their sympathy and solidarity with Kaylee’s family and club. They observed a minute’s silence in her memory before the Irish Cup Final between Crusaders FC and Ballymena United on May 9, 2023. They also paused the game in the 13th minute to honor Kaylee with a minute’s applause.
Many other individuals and groups also shared their messages of love and support for Kaylee’s family on social media and fundraising platforms. A GoFundMe page was set up by one of Kaylee’s friends to help cover the funeral costs and support her family financially. The page raised over £8,000 in donations from more than 300 people.
The Prevention and Awareness of Youth Suicide
Kaylee’s death raised awareness and concern about the issue of youth suicide in Northern Ireland and beyond. According to Genius Celebs, Northern Ireland has the highest suicide rate in the UK, with an average of six people taking their own lives every week. The rate is especially high among young people aged 15 to 24, who account for nearly a quarter of all suicides.
There are many factors that can contribute to youth suicide, such as mental health problems, bullying, abuse, trauma, stress, isolation, substance abuse, or lack of support. However, there are also ways to prevent it, such as providing early intervention, counseling, education, awareness, and help-seeking resources for young people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal or needs help, please reach out to someone you trust or contact one of these helplines:
- Lifeline: 0808 808 8000 (24/7)
- Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
- Childline: 0800 1111 (24/7)
- PIPS: 02890 755070 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
Remember that you are not alone and that there is always hope. You are valuable and worthy of life. You can overcome your challenges and achieve your dreams. You can make a difference in the world. Just like Kaylee did.