‘A smile that will never be seen again’: Tributes paid to ‘true gentleman’ Kyle

by Paul McElwee

A GREAT many tributes have been paid to ‘true gentleman’ Kyle McDermott, a native of Burt, following his killing at the weekend.

Leading those tributes was Mr McDermott’s relative, Strabane independent councillor, Jason Barr.

“Kyle Mc Dermott, forever 24,” he stated.

“A smile that will never be seen again. Kyle didn’t deserve this. Please keep Kyle’s partner Chloe, his mum Claire, dad Stephen, sister

Stephanie and brothers Arden and Sheehan and our family in your prayers.

“Devastated beyond words.”

A spokesperson for McGettigan’s Homes, where Mr McDermott had worked for a number of years alongside his father and brother Arden, said, “All at McGettigan’s Homes would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the McDermott family on the loss of their son Kyle.

“He was a great asset to our company and his tragic passing has sorely affected us all.”

Paul McGettigan added, “Kyle was a pleasure to work with and did everything with a smile on his face and a glint in his eye.”

Another tribute was paid by Molly Malone’s Bar in Liverpool, a city where Mr McDermott undertook his studies.

A statement said, “It is with a heavy heart that I write this message on behalf of management and staff, both past and present. Last night, we lost a very close friend and customer of Molly Malone’s under tragic circumstances. To say he left a huge hole in all our hearts is an understatement; Molly’s is heartbroken.

“We will love and miss you dearly. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the McDermott family during this incredibly difficult time. May you fly high above, Kyle!”

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan said that the community is ‘devastated’ following Mr McDermott’s death.

He commented, “Our thoughts and prayers are with this man’s family and friends, my heart goes out to them as they deal with this earth-shattering news. I’m sure everyone in the local community will rally around them at this terrible time.”

Sinn Fein MP Órfhlaith Begley added, “My heartfelt sympathies go out to this man’s family as they come to terms with such an unimaginable loss.

“Police have launched a murder investigation and I would appeal to anyone with information which could assist the investigation to contact the PSNI.”

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