Co Tyrone Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of 16-Year-Old Former Student

A wave of grief has swept through Co Tyrone following the tragic passing of 16-year-old Aisha Petrikova, a recent graduate of St Patrick’s College, Dungannon. Aisha, who completed her studies in June 2025 and was preparing to embark on the next stage of her life, was reported missing on Monday evening, September 22, in the Dungannon area.

Despite an extensive search operation involving the Community Rescue Service (CRS), the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), and the Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA), specialist teams were forced to stand down when Aisha was sadly discovered deceased.

In a heartfelt tribute, St Patrick’s College described Aisha as a “fiercely independent young woman with a unique sense of style and immense talent.” Her artwork, showcased prominently in the school’s June exhibition, reflected her creativity, while her love for the guitar and music resonated deeply with her peers.

The school added:

“Aisha had a keen sense of justice and compassion. She was known to look out for others—just today, a Year 9 student recalled how Aisha comforted her when she was new in Year 8 and had yet to find friends. Above all, Aisha cherished her family—her father Lubos, her siblings Jessica, Megan, and Lubos, and of course, Toby, her beloved dog. She missed her dear mother Janette terribly (RIP). Aisha will be sorely missed. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace.”

The Community Rescue Service extended their condolences, acknowledging the deep sorrow felt across the community. A CRS spokesperson said:

“The management team and all our volunteers offer our deepest sympathies to Aisha’s family, friends, and school community at this most difficult time. We are grateful to the police and SARDA for their tireless support and to the local community, whose solidarity was truly remarkable throughout the search.”

Similarly, the Search and Rescue Dog Association expressed their sorrow, noting:

“Tragically, the search reached a very sad conclusion. Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go to Aisha’s family, friends, neighbours, and the wider community at this unimaginable time of loss. We also extend our thoughts to our colleagues at CRS and the PSNI, who shared in the hope of a positive outcome.”

Aisha’s funeral will take place on Friday, September 26, at 10 a.m. at St Patrick’s Church, Dungannon, followed by a private cremation at Lakeland’s Crematorium, Co Cavan.

A funeral notice read:

“Beloved daughter of Lubos and the late Janette (RIP), and loving sister of Jessica, Megan, and Lubos Jnr. Deeply regretted by her loving father, sisters, brother, Lubos’ partner Paula and her children Bethany, Chloe, and Emilie, together with the wider family circle and friends. On her soul, sweet Jesus have mercy.”