'Most loving person in the world'

'Most loving person in the world'

8 December 2021

THE funeral takes place this morning of the young woman who died in Ballynahinch last week.

Tierna Campbell (20), who was found at a flats complex in Dromore Street last Thursday evening and later died, has been described by her heartbroken family as the “most loving person in the world”.

A service of Requiem Mass takes place this morning at St Patrick’s Church in the town at 10am followed by burial at Milltown Cemetery in Belfast.

Three men, two aged 26 and one aged 30, who were initially arrested by detectives, were subsequently released on bail as police enquiries continue.

Tierna’s heartbroken mother, Arleen, posted an emotional tribute to her daughter on social media saying she’d give anything to have her back, while her former school principal described her as a “bright girl with a big heart who always saw the good in others”.

She posted: “My beautiful baby girl. What I would give to have you back, my beautiful angel.”

Her brother Gerard posted: “My baby sister Tierna has passed away as many of you know. She was the most caring and loving person in the world. It breaks my heart knowing that me, my boys and everyone else won’t get to hear her giggle or see her smile again”.

Mr Joe McCann, principal at St Patrick’s Grammar School in Downpatrick where Tierna studied after leaving St Colman’s High and Sixth Form College in Ballynahinch in 2017, has extended his sympathy to Tierna’s family.

He said when that she joined St Patrick’s, she quickly made friends in her new environment. 

Mr McCann — who also taught Tierna — said he has fond memories of her infectious smile and caring nature. 

“Tierna was a bright girl with a big heart who always saw good in others and was always willing to help those who needed it. She was a good friend to those around her,” he said.

He added: “We mourn Tierna’s passing and our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends as they come to terms with their terrible loss.”

A number of local politicians have extended their sympathy to the family including Strangford MLA Harry Harvey, Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairwoman Cathy Mason and Rowallane councillors Billy Walker and Terry Andrews.

Mr Harvey said he was saddened to learn of the young woman’s death which was a tragic loss for a close-knit community, with his thoughts and prayers with her family at this sad and distressing time.

Cllr Mason appealed to anyone who knows anything about last week’s incident to contact police and extended her sympathy to Tierna’s family.

Cllr Walker said he was “very shocked that has happened”, particularly so close to Christmas, and that the tragic events which unfolded last week were something he thought would never happen in Ballynahinch.

“This young woman’s death is a total tragedy. She had her whole life ahead of her. My thoughts are with her family and friends at this particularly challenging time,” he added.

Cllr Andrews said words “cannot express how Tierna’s family must be feeling at this very sad time in  their lives”.

He added: “Tierna and her family will be in the thoughts and prayers of many people across the district. A tragedy such as this is heartbreaking at any time, but especially in the run-up to Christmas.

“I would also appeal to anyone who can assist police with their enquiries to come forward to help in any way that they can.”

Detectives are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the Dromore Street area of Ballynahinch on Thursday evening of last week and noticed anything suspicious. 

Anyone who believes they may be able to assist officers with their enquiries is asked to contact police using the non-emergency 101 number, quoting reference 1626 02/12/21.

Information can also be provided anonymously via the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.