Tributes for Irish pilot, 25, 'with bright future ahead' after he dies in sleep

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TRIBUTES have poured in for a young Dublin pilot "with a bright future ahead" after he sadly passed away in his sleep last week.

Evan Hill, who was from Donnybrook, tragically died last Friday after suffering a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage in his sleep.

A notice online said: "Suddenly from a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage.

"Beloved son of Gemma and Arnie, he will be very sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, his loving brothers David, and fellow triplets Gerard and Peter, together with his extended family and many friends including those from Belvedere College, Old Belvedere RFC and the Atlantic Flight Training Academy in Cork."

Evan had only recently completed his training to be a pilot at Atlantic Flight Training Academy and successfully performed his first solo flight at Waterford Airport in April.

And in an emotional tribute, the flight training organisation told how Evan was a "natural aviator".

The Cork club said: "Evan began his training with us in August 2024 and quickly left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Evan remains a highly regarded member of our AFTA family.

"His dedication, positivity and passion for aviation were evident from the very beginning.

"He was a natural aviator, and one of the standout moments of his time with us was when he achieved his first solo flight and earned his wings, an accomplishment that reflected both his talent and determination.

"Evan will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"He was not only a committed diligent cadet pilot, but he was also a cherished friend and colleague. Evan will be greatly missed by the entire AFTA community."

Evan was also a talented athlete, playing rugby for Old Belvedere RFC, while his family was heavily involved with Kilmacud Crokes GAA club.

The Stillorgan-based GAA club described Evan's passing as "heartbreaking and devastating news".

It added: "We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to his devastated parents, Arnie and Gemma, his brother David and his fellow triplets, Gerard and Peter and all their extended family and friends.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this difficult time."

'ALWAYS NICE TO EVERYONE'

Old Belvedere Rugby Club told how the Hill family have been a "central" party of the club over "many years" in a tribute to Evan.

A statement continued: "Evan, along with his brothers Peter, David and Gerard all played mini rugby in our club and went on to play U20s and senior rugby.

"Evan most recently played with the junior section in the 2023-24 season.

"Evan's father, Arnie, has been involved in Old Belvedere as a player, a minis coach and when the boys were playing, he acted as medic and a supporter for many teams. Evan's brothers David and Gerard are currently part of our senior squad."

The club added: "Our hearts go out to the Hill family on their terrible loss, we wish them the strength to cope with Evan's sudden passing following a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage.

"Evan and his family will remain in our thoughts."

'LIFE IS UNFAIR'

Other mourners are continuing to pay tribute to tragic Evan.

One said: "He was a lovely guy, always nice to everyone, always had a smile on his face. So sorry to hear of his passing."

Another added: "There are no words. Life is terribly unfair. Evan sounds like he was a fantastic guy with a bright future ahead.

"To have that taken away is beyond devastating. We are so so sorry and we are thinking of you all in the weeks and months ahead as you navigate this awful time."

A third mourner said: "Rest in peace Evan, a handsome young man in the prime of his life."

Evan will be reposing at his home this evening from 5pm to 7pm.

Removal will take place on Friday morning to the Church of the Sacred Heart in Donnybrook, arriving for 11am requiem mass and followed by burial at 3:30pm in Rathgormack, Co Waterford.

The Atlantic Flight Training Academy confirmed it will close as mark of respect this Friday for Evan's funeral.