Boy, 7, hit by car on first day of holidays

IT SHOULD have been a day to remember — instead it became a day his parents will never forget as their 7-year-old son died after being struck by a jeep on the first day of his summer holidays. He was one of three people killed on Irish roads yesterday.

The boy was struck on the main street in Clonroche, Co Wexford, as he chased a dog across the road.

Investigating gardaí, who have appealed for witnesses, said the incident happened at about 10.45am.

After being hit, the boy, from Canon Murphy Park, Clonroche, was rushed to Wexford General Hospital, but he died from his injuries shortly after arrival.

The jeep was seen travelling toward New Ross on the N80 after the accident. Forensic investigators have examined the scene and the road was reopened after being closed for some time.

Separately, gardaí are investigating the death of a cyclist on the N4 in Longford and the death of a motorcyclist in Co Limerick.

The Co Longford victim, a man in his 30s, was struck by a lorry at about midday on the main route at Clonart, Bornacoola, between Rooskey roundabout and Newtownforbes.

Gardaí at Askeaton, Co Limerick, are investigating a fatality that occurred at approximately 4pm yesterday, at Carrigeen, Croom. A male motorcyclist, believed to be in his 20s, was fatally injured after his bike collided with a car.

- Gardaí at Clonroche are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the death of the Wexford boy to contact them on 053-924 2580 or on the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

Picture: Mary Browne