Co Wicklow, Ireland — The community of Co Wicklow is devastated by the untimely death of 8-year-old Matthew Breen, who tragically passed away on November 17, 2025, at Crumlin Children’s Hospital in Dublin. Matthew’s heartbreaking journey began with a seemingly routine injury at school, but it ended in a tragic loss that has left his family, friends, and the entire community in deep mourning.
The Incident and Medical Complications
Matthew was rushed to the hospital on Thursday, November 6, after suffering a broken arm in two places while at school. His family reports that he appeared perfectly fine after the injury and was initially sent home by the hospital. However, his condition took a turn for the worse, prompting his mother, Ciara, to seek further treatment at Crumlin Hospital for surgery on his broken arm.
Once admitted, Matthew began to experience complications. He was given tablets and steroids to alleviate symptoms, but he continued to vomit throughout the day. Despite receiving a second dose of steroids, his breathing became labored, and hospital staff advised Ciara to walk Matthew around the hospital and provide him with water.
After being discharged from the hospital, Matthew’s condition worsened significantly by the following Monday, November 10. He struggled to breathe and stopped breathing entirely, leading to an urgent response from first responders. Matthew was quickly taken back to Crumlin Hospital, where he was placed into an induced coma and on life support.
Matthew’s Passing and Family’s Grief
Tragically, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Matthew passed away on Monday, November 17, 2025, with his family by his side. His death has left a profound emptiness in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.
Matthew’s family has shared how much he was loved by those around him. He was described as a “loving little boy” who brought joy and warmth into the lives of his parents, siblings, and everyone who encountered him. Matthew’s mother, Ciara, and his family are struggling with the devastating loss of their eldest child, and the grief is shared by the entire Co Wicklow community.
GoFundMe Page Established to Support the Family
In the wake of Matthew’s tragic death, his sister-in-law, Lauren Frampton, has set up a GoFundMe page to help alleviate the financial burden on the family during this incredibly difficult time. Lauren shared the following message on the fundraising page:
“Matthew was the most loving little boy. He is missed and loved by so many people. Matthew has 2 brothers and 2 sisters, and Matthew was the eldest. This GoFundMe is to help Matthew’s family with the financial stress. He was the most heartwarming boy and will be missed and loved by all who knew him. As a community, we’ve all pulled together, and anything—no matter how little—would really help this family through this difficult time.”
As of now, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over €12,600 from more than 500 donations, with the funds offering much-needed support to the Breen family as they navigate this overwhelming tragedy.
A Community Coming Together
The outpouring of support from the local community reflects the love and impact that Matthew had on everyone around him. Friends, neighbors, and fellow parents have rallied together to assist the family, offering financial help and emotional support in the aftermath of this unimaginable loss.
Matthew’s story serves as a poignant reminder of how fragile life is and the importance of community and family support during times of profound grief. The Breen family is grateful for the love and compassion they’ve received, and they continue to honor Matthew’s memory by cherishing the moments they shared with him.
Remembering Matthew Breen
Matthew will always be remembered for his kind heart, his warm spirit, and the joy he brought to those who loved him. His legacy will live on in the memories of the family, friends, and community members who had the privilege of knowing him.
Though his life was tragically short, Matthew’s impact will endure. He will forever be missed and cherished by all who knew him. Rest in peace, sweet Matthew, and may your memory be a blessing.
