Former Fermanagh footballer Shane O’Brien has died in a road accident in Pretoria, South Africa. There he lived and worked for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Erne Gayles was part of the Fermanagh Minor team that reached the Ulster final in 2003, and was part of the senior setup in 2009 before traveling abroad to work at the United Nations.

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of Shane O’Brien’s tragic death at the Ann Gales Club,” Fermanagh said in a statement.

Shane was a member of the Fermanagh Minor team that reached the Ulster final in 2003 and the Fermanagh senior football team in 2009.

Shane also won a Conna Nag title in 1999 at St. Michael’s College, Enniskillen and in 2002 at a Macro Cup. Our deepest sympathies go now to the O’Brien family.

“At the right hand of God was his Spirit.”

Former teammate Ryan McCluskey was among those who offered condolences on Twitter.

“Another life took off very quickly. It’s a pleasure to play with this young man. A gentleman and intelligent. Condolences to Shane’s family and rnErneGaelsGAC club members. @FermanaghGAA #Rip #persspect.”

Sad news about Shane O’Brien’s passing. He won a macro cup for St. Michaels, played for Fermanagh and then made a real difference in the world for the UN. Ardhis de Go Reib Anam, Rest in Peace Shine.

– Thomas Corrigan (c tcorrigan714) December 9, 2020