Northern Ireland student dies in Russia

A Northern Ireland student studying in Russia has died after falling from an apartment block.

Matthew Howell, 22, from Coleraine died after he lost his grip on a stairwell and fell four floors onto a concrete surface in St Petersburg.

He was a student at St Andrew’s University, Scotland and was on a semester abroad when the incident happened on Monday.

In a statement, Matthew’s parents said their eldest son had “lived a full life and influenced many in his 22 years.”

“He was the oldest brother of 10 children and a son who honoured his parents and brought us great pride,” the statement said.

“His home church, the Barn Fellowship in Ballymoney, will miss the energy and loving smile, as well as his frequent reports of his international travels.”

A police investigation into the incident is ongoing.

(JM)