Tributes paid to 'beautiful, spirited' Wicklow girl who died in tragic accident in Mallorca

Clodagh Phelan from Co Wicklow, who died in a tragic fall at a hotel in Mallorca. Picture: Parnell Athletic Club Facebook page

The Irish girl who died after falling from the seventh floor of a Mallorca hotel has been described as a “beautiful, spirited child” who excelled in many sports.

11-year-old Clodagh Phelan from Co Wicklow is understood to have fallen while her relatives were sleeping overnight on Sunday night into yesterday morning. The alarm was raised at around 6.30am on Monday when Clodagh was found outside the complex. The tragedy occurred at the well known Club Mac hotel in Puerto de Alcudia, on the northeastern side of the island.

Efforts were made at the scene to revive her by paramedics and other emergency responders. However she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her body was removed for an autopsy, which will pave the way for the family to make arrangements to return home from the popular holiday island.

Emergency services teams at the scene of the fall at the Club Mac hotel in Puerto de Alcudia, Mallorca. Picture: Solarpix

It is understood that the Phelan family had been due to leave Mallorca yesterday.

Taoiseach Simon Harris posted on X that he was “sad to hear of the tragic loss of Clodagh Phelan.” “So much promise and personality snatched away in a terrible accident. Thoughts with her family and community at this truly awful time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”

Clodagh was a sports enthusiast and was a member of Parnell Athletics Club. 

In a statement last night, the club said: “Parnell AC are truly heartbroken to share the devastating news of the passing of Clodagh Phelan, one of our juvenile athletes and friend to many of our younger athletes. Clodagh tragically passed away following an accident on holidays. Clodagh was a beautiful, spirited child and a great athlete who excelled in many sports, not just athletics. Her family Valerie, Liam, Will, and David and extended family are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. As a mark of respect and to allow us all time to grieve the loss of Clodagh, there will be no training until further notice.” 

Meanwhile, Aughrim GAA & LFGA Club also paid tribute to her last night, saying: “With heartfelt sadness, we learned of the tragic and untimely passing of Clodagh Phelan, beloved daughter of Liam and Valerie. We are keeping Liam & Valerie, their family, friends and the members of Avondale GAA & Camogie club in our thoughts and prayers during this heartbreaking time.” 

The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed it has been notified of the tragedy.

An investigation into the death is being carried out by the Guardia Civil in Alcudia.