Man killed in Cork river crash named as nursing home worker and father of two

Joice Thomas, who was killed when his car crashed in Cork. Picture: GoFundMe

The man who was killed when his car crashed into a river on Cork had moved to Ireland from India last year.

Joice Thomas, who lived in Ballynoe in east Cork with his wife and their two young children, had finished work in the kitchen of Ballincurrig nursing home on Friday night and was on his way to meet friends when the accident occurred between Conna and Aghern villages. 

His family and friends spent hours searching for him overnight on Friday night before his car was found in the river Bride at around 10am on Saturday.

He was father to a four-month-old baby boy and a two-and-a-half year old girl.

A fundraising campaign has now been set up to cover the costs of repatriation of the 34-year-old's remains to India, as well as his funeral and future costs for the family. 

He was from the Kambammettu area and began work as an assistant in the kitchen of the Ballincurrig care centre two months ago.

The gofundme campaign organisers said: "Sadly, Joice passed away in this tragic incident, leaving behind his grieving wife, young children, family, and friends who are devastated by this sudden and heartbreaking loss. We are initiating this fundraising campaign to support Joice’s family during this extremely difficult time. 

"The funds raised will help cover the repatriation of his body, funeral expenses, and provide financial support for the future and well-being of his children. As we know, kindness goes a long way. We humbly request your generous support and prayers for the family during this time of profound sorrow."

On Sunday morning, approximately €21,000 was raised, out of a target of €55,000.

Mr Thomas's remains were taken to Cork University Hospital for a post mortem examination. Gardai have conducted a forensic examination of the scene.

Gardaí are now appealing for witnesses and for road users with camera or dash-cam footage who were travelling on the R628 between 10pm on Friday 19 and 10am on Saturday 20 December to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Fermoy Garda Station on 025 82100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.