Limerick, Ireland – In a heart-wrenching incident, the tranquil waters of the Shannon River in Limerick turned into a scene of tragedy as two young men, identified as Bourke and Putt, lost their lives while bathing late in the evening. The incident unfolded on a quiet evening that took a distressing turn, leaving the community in mourning.

Details of the incident indicate that Bourke and Putt had ventured to enjoy a leisurely swim in the Shannon River at Limerick, seeking respite from the summer heat. Little did they know that their outing would end in such a tragic manner. As they waded into the river, the water appeared calm, and the friends began to enjoy their time in the refreshing currents.

However, the peaceful evening took a sudden turn when Bourke found himself in deeper waters than he had anticipated. Panic set in as he struggled to stay afloat. In a desperate attempt to help his distressed friend, Putt rushed to Bourke’s aid. It was at this moment that both young men became entangled with the river’s unforgiving currents, leaving them struggling to break free.

As the minutes passed, onlookers realized that something was amiss, and a sense of urgency filled the air. The incident drew the attention of James Ahern, a passer-by who happened to be near the river. Without hesitation, he entered the water in an attempt to rescue Bourke and Putt.

Despite his brave efforts, Ahern was unable to reach the drowning young men in time to save them. The powerful currents proved too formidable, and the trio found themselves battling against the relentless force of the river. Despite Ahern’s valiant attempts, he was forced to retreat to shore, unable to overcome the formidable obstacle that lay before him.

Local authorities were alerted to the dire situation, and a search and rescue operation was swiftly initiated. Despite the distressing circumstances, the search teams worked tirelessly, determined to locate Bourke and Putt. Their efforts ultimately paid off, as the bodies of the two young men were recovered from the river.

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves throughout the close-knit community of Limerick, as friends and family members of Bourke and Putt grapple with their sudden and heartbreaking loss. Grief has enveloped the area, with an outpouring of condolences and support pouring in for the bereaved families.

This devastating event serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable and sometimes treacherous nature of natural bodies of water, even in seemingly calm conditions. It highlights the importance of water safety and vigilance when enjoying recreational activities near rivers and lakes.

As the Limerick community mourns the loss of two young lives, they come together to remember Bourke and Putt and reflect on the fragility of life. This tragic incident serves as a solemn reminder of the need for caution and awareness when enjoying the natural beauty that Limerick and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Freeman’s Journal – Friday 04 September 1914