Down referee saved by medics after heart attack on pitch

A DOWN referee, 46, is stable but still in a critical condition in hospital after he collapsed during a club championship game in Newry on Sunday night.

Thousands of people watched as a defibrillator was used to resuscitate Gabriel Tumelty in the tie between Burren and Longstone at Páirc Esler. He was then taken to Daisy Hill Hospital for treatment.

According to the BBC, medical staff from both football teams and three doctors who were watching the game came to the referee’s assistance when he collapsed with just minutes remaining.

A defibrillator was then used to revive him and an ambulance arrived at the scene moments later.

Down County Board said in a statement: “Coiste Chontae An Dúin wish to express their thanks and grateful appreciation to the doctor, nurses and paramedics who attended to our referee Gabriel Tumelty during last night’s Down SFC tie at Páirc Esler.

“The early intervention of all concerned ensured Gabriel received the highest care possible at the scene and we once again are thankful for that quick attention.

“We wish Gabriel a speedy recovery and to his family we send our best wishes, you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”

In 2007, the GAA launched a nationwide initiative to provide Automated External Defibrillators (AED) at every county ground for use by trained personnel.

It was the second time in a fortnight that one of the machines was used on a sports pitch in the North. A defibrillator was also used on Christopher McNeill, 17, when he collapsed at a Milk Cup soccer match in Derry last month.