Mother and teen son killed in single-vehicle accident

A north Co Galway town is in shock following the tragic death of a mother and her teenage son in a car accident.

Tina Kelly, who was in her 30s, and her 14-year-old son, Joey, were pronounced dead at the scene on a link road for the N63 in Ballygar.

Gardaí are still trying to establish the cause of the single-vehicle accident, which occurred at 9.45pm on Sunday when the car collided with a tree.

The alarm was raised by a passing motorist and frantic but unsuccessful attempts were made to save the mother and son.

Local councillor and mayor of Galway County Council, Michael Connolly, said the community is reeling following the tragedy.

“It’s a terrible accident and a massive shock for the Ballygar area and the whole surrounding community,” he said.

“It is especially difficult at this time of the year and we just want to send our deepest condolences to the Kelly family at this time.

“The Kellys are a well-known and respected family and both of these deaths will be mourned widely.”

Gardaí are appealing any witnesses to the accident to come forward.

In a separate accident in Maynooth, Co Kildare, a 38-year-old man died yesterday afternoon when the jeep in which he was travelling hit a ditch. A female passenger was taken to Naas General Hospital with minor injuries. No other people were involved

Gardaí at Leixlip have appealed for witnesses to contact Leixlip Garda Station on 01-666 7800, the Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

Meanwhile, a motorcyclist is in serious condition in Cork University Hospital following a crash at a race meeting on Sunday.

Seamus Elliott from Ballymoney, Co Antrim, suffered head injuries and multiple fractures at the Faugheen 50 meet in Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary.

Mr Elliott was immediately airlifted to CUH.

The rider had made his debut appearance at the Isle of Man TT earlier this year.

The incident came a day after another crash at the same event, which saw Cork rider Brian Coomey also airlifted to CUH for treatment.

Noel Carroll from Laois was also injured in the incident at Saturday’s practice and was also brought to CUH for treatment.