A tragic road incident in Abbeyfeale, Co Limerick, has left a male pedestrian in his 70s dead after being struck by a car. The accident, which occurred on the evening of January 10, has sparked a Gardaí investigation and an appeal for witnesses to help piece together the events leading up to the collision.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the vulnerability of pedestrians on rural roads and the importance of road safety awareness.

Details of the Accident

The fatal crash occurred at approximately 7:00 PM on the main street of Abbeyfeale, a busy thoroughfare in the town. The man, a local resident, was crossing the road when he was hit by an oncoming car. Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their best efforts, the man was pronounced dead shortly after the collision.

The driver of the vehicle, who was unharmed, remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with Gardaí as they investigate the incident.

A Garda spokesperson said, “We are currently examining all circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area to come forward.”

Community in Mourning

The death of the pedestrian has left the Abbeyfeale community heartbroken. Many locals described the man as a well-known and beloved figure who was often seen walking through the town.

One resident shared, “He was such a kind and gentle soul. It’s devastating to think that his life ended in such a tragic way. Our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Flowers have been placed at the scene of the accident, with mourners paying their respects and expressing their sorrow over the loss.

Garda Investigation Underway

Gardaí have launched an extensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision. Forensic collision investigators examined the scene, and the road was closed for several hours to facilitate their work.

Officials are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the crash or who might have dashcam footage capturing the moments leading up to the collision.

Inspector Michael O’Leary commented, “Every piece of information can help us build a clearer picture of what happened. We urge anyone who might have seen something, no matter how minor it may seem, to contact us.”

Road Safety Concerns

This tragic accident has reignited discussions about pedestrian safety in rural areas, where street lighting and pedestrian crossings are often limited. Abbeyfeale’s main street is a busy road with significant vehicular and foot traffic, making it a potential hotspot for accidents.

Road safety expert Dr. Eileen Hayes stated, “Rural roads present unique challenges for both drivers and pedestrians. Improved infrastructure, such as better lighting and dedicated pedestrian crossings, could help prevent such tragedies in the future.”

Supporting the Family

The man’s family is being supported by Gardaí and the local community as they come to terms with their loss. Friends and neighbors have rallied around them, offering condolences and assistance during this difficult time.

A family friend said, “They are understandably devastated. He was a loving father and grandfather, and his absence will leave a huge void in their lives.”

Call for Action

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution on the roads, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity. Local officials and community leaders are calling for increased road safety measures in Abbeyfeale and similar towns to prevent further tragedies.

“Losing someone in this manner is a tragedy no family should have to endure. We need to work together to ensure our roads are safer for everyone,” said Councillor Liam Murphy.

Looking Ahead

As Gardaí continue their investigation, the community of Abbeyfeale will be focused on supporting the grieving family and advocating for changes to improve road safety.

This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the need for shared responsibility among drivers, pedestrians, and local authorities to create safer environments for all road users.

For more stories and insights, visit It’s On

Instagram:@itson.ie

TikTok videos and information:@itson.ie