Information on student support can be found on the Student Services Hub webpages. Students can also access support from the Students’ Union.
A STIRLING student has died in a tragic accident last week in Northern Ireland.
Vincent Gomez, a computing science student, was with a group of friends jumping off rocks into a cove known as the Lord’s Prayer near Dunluce Castle on June 17 when the tragedy unfolded.
Vincent jumped into the water and hit his head, his friends then attempted to save him but when emergency services arrived he was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
One of Vincent’s friends suffered a back injury and Vincent’s two other friends had no injuries.
Vincent’s friends have been praised for their brave efforts to save him as rescue crews, including a lifeboat and helicopter, raced to the scene.
In the aftermath of Vincent’s death, Coastguard Station Officer Alistair Simpson has encouraged people to only participate in water activities that are with an organised group who have the proper safety equipment. He stressed the importance of wearing a wetsuit, life jacket and a helmet especially.
Gomez was a former member of the 11th Belfast Scout Group. The group paid tribute to the student in a Facebook post saying:
“Vincent was a dedicated member of the Venture section, attending expeditions to Portugal Hungary, and Denmark, and was a devoted attendee to every activity organised throughout each year he was a member. Vincent contributed much during his short time with the 11th Belfast Scout Group and his sudden passing is a shock to all members, in particular his fellow Venture scouts.“
Yesterday the university sent a notification to students informing them of the death and offering support.
Professor Maggie Cusack, the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences said:
“We know this is an extremely difficult time, especially for those of you who knew Vincent personally. Our immediate thoughts and sympathies are with Vincent’s family and friends.“
She added, “Our priority now is to ensure that fellow students and staff affected by this news are supported. Our Student Support Services team is available to help students who have been affected, whether that is in relation to emotional or academic support.“
A fundraising page has been set up to support the Gomez family and you can donate here.
Students can get in contact with the Student Services Hub team by emailing them at ask@stir.ac.uk or phoning 01786 466022 where Student Hub Assistants and Advisers are available.
Featured Image: 11th Belfast Scout Group
Information on student support can be found on the Student Services Hub webpages. Students can also access support from the Students’ Union.
Animal Biology student with interests in Agriculture and Journalism
