A teenager who died after being hit by a car in Limerick on Sunday had only celebrated his 18th birthday on Wednesday.
Donnacha Ryan from Cappaghmore was treated at the scene of the crash which happened on a local road at Dromsally at around 4am.
Emergency services were alerted following the incident between a driver and the young pedestrian.
The teenager was rushed to University Hospital in Limerick by ambulance but was pronounced dead shortly after.
Speaking to this newspaper, Local Councillor Fianna Fail Councillor Martin Ryan said the community were “grief stricken with the sad news".
READ MORE: Man found dead in ditch in Cavan named locally as gardai piece together what happened
He told the Irish Mirror: “Donnacha only celebrated his 18th birthday on Wednesday. He was a lovely lad. His family are very well known and would be the first to help you if you needed them.
“We had our agriculture show this weekend, the first time in three years, the whole community had a fantastic day and now everyone is number today.
“It’s a terrible shame, we are a heartbroken community. It’s a close-knit village and Donnacha’s family are very well liked.
“My nephew would be related to the family, so it is very close to our hearts. It’s just awful news”.
On Sunday night, Donnacha’s shocked community were invited to gather for a vigil to remember the young man at Cappamore GAA and Camogie Club who “had the world at his feet”.
In a statement on their Facebook page, the club said: “Cappamore GAA and Camogie Club invite you to a remembrance night for Donnacha Ryan Luke R.I.P. It will be held in Cappamore Club field, this evening, Sunday at 8.30pm. Club gates will be open at 7.30 to allow ample time for parking. All community welcome.”
Clanwilliam F.C also remembered the young man online, a statement on their facebook page, said “All at Clanwilliam especially last year's U18.5 team are saddened to hear of the sudden and tragic passing of Donnacha Ryan (luke).
“Donnacha loved his rugby, and we had the privilege of having him playing with our U18.5 team. Donnacha was a fine young man with the world at his feet. Our thoughts are with his parents Mikey, Nicola and sister Aishling. CBAW.”
Cappamore Celtic FC paid tribute to the late teen on social media saying: “From all connected with Cappamore Celtic FC our deepest sympathies go out to the Family of Donnacha Ryan Luke R.I.P”.
Dozens of well-wishers posted messages to the Ryan family with one saying “Thinking of Donnachas parents, sister and extended Ryan’s families”.
While another wrote, “Sincere condolences to all, may he rest in peace”.
The road near Cappamore was closed for a short time yesterday while forensics examined the scene.
Gardai are appealing for witnesses of the crash to come forward.
In a statement a spokesperson said: "Gardaí in Bruff are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic incident in Cappamore, County Limerick on Sunday the 21st of August 2022.
"Shortly before 4am, Gardaí and emergency services were alerted following an incident involving a car and pedestrian on a local road at Dromsally near Cappamore.
"The pedestrian, a male aged in his late teens, was treated at the scene and taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick where he was later pronounced dead.
"Garda Forensic Collision Investigators have been requested to examine the scene and the local Coroner has been notified. The road is currently closed, and local diversions are in place.
"Investigating Gardaí are appealing for witness to contact them.
"Anyone with information can contact Bruff Garda Station 061 382940 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111."
Read next:
Family and friends support husband after young Irish mum dies four days after wedding
Ireland's hidden 'gold mines' that people speculate could be hiding great riches
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter
