The young man killed after being hit by a car while out walking in Celbridge, Co Kildare, on Thursday has been named locally as Alex Helps.
The 17-year-old died after being transferred to Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown following the tragic accident. Alex was a pedestrian on Aghards Road in Celbridge when he was struck by a car shortly before noon on Thursday.
He was a student at the local Celbridge Community School.
Gardaí continue to appeal to any person who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. Any road users who were travelling in the area with camera (including dash cam) footage, is asked to make this available to Gardaí at Leixlip Garda Station at 01 666 7800, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
Read More: Irish man who 'never stopped smiling' named as Crete drowning victim
Alex has been remembered today as a "kind young man" by family and friends.
The RIP.ie notice of his death describes him as a "beloved and adored son of Jo and Graham, much loved brother of Adam and loving grandson of Hanne and the late Anne and George."
He will be "sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, brother, girlfriend Estimee, Oma, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, his close circle of wonderful friends especially all in St. Johns Ambulance and his four legged pal Pepper."
Friends and family have been posting condolences with one writing: "No amount of words can be used to describe how amazing Alex was. He such a kind young man. My heart goes out to the Helps family and friends in this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing."
Another read: "Jo, Graham and Adam, we are so sorry for the loss of Alex. Thinking of you all."
St John's Ambulance Kildare, of which Alex was a member, said in a post: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend and colleague Cadet Sgt Alex Helps.
"Alex's energetic personality, immensely funny sense of humour and so many funny stories will be sadly missed amongst all of us in North Kildare and across the wider organisation.
"Anyone who trained or worked alongside Alex was always left laughing and smiling. His dedication to his training and delivery of his skills were second to none and therefore was well respected by his fellow Cadets, Cadet Leaders and members of our Adult Division. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jo, Graham, Adam, extended family and friends at this most difficult time.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam."
Alex is reposing at his home on Sunday from 3 pm to 6 pm. Funeral Mass on Monday at 11am in St. Patrick’s Church, Celbridge followed by burial in Newlands Cross Cemetery.
The latest figures from the gardai show that up until Wednesday, 83 people had been killed on the country's roads so far this year.
That is a rise of 40 deaths on last year.
READ NEXT :
