Family of teenager killed in hit-and run in 'unimaginable' pain as funeral fundraiser set up

Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe. 

The family of a teenage girl who was killed in a hit-and-run while out walking her dog are in “unimaginable” pain, a family relative has said.

Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe, aged 16, was tragically struck by a car on the Slane Road, in Navan, Co Meath, at about 8.20pm on Saturday. Her dog, Bowie, was also killed in the collision, which happened close to her home.

A GoFundMe page has been launched to help with the costs of Mia Lily's funeral and other expenses. It has currently raised €24,596 and has received more than 900 donations.

In a post online, the relative said Mia Lily's family are in “unimaginable” pain and asked for support no matter “how big or small”.

He said: “I am a close relative to the Keogh O’Keeffe family, and with the permission of Mia Lily’s family, I have set up this GoFundMe page to help with the cost of her funeral and other expenses.

“On Saturday, 21st February, Mia Lily was tragically struck by a car while walking her beloved dog, Bowie, on the Slane Road in Navan. She suffered catastrophic injuries and later passed away in hospital. Tragically, Bowie also lost his life.

“Mia Lily was just moments from her home when the collision occurred, and the driver did not stop.” 

He said Mia Lily had her whole life ahead of her, and has left behind her heartbroken mother Louise, father Stephen, her sister Katelyn, and her brothers Kai, Zack and Cole, along with "so many friends and loved ones who are devastated by her loss".

Mia Lily's local school has also paid tribute to the fifth-year student.

A statement to LMFM said: "Loreto St Michael’s and the whole Loreto Community is deeply saddened by the tragic death of our 5th year student Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe. We would like to express our sincere condolences to Mia Lily’s family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.

"As a school we have support structures in place to help all students and we have sought guidance from NEPS [National Educational Psychology Services]. We will keep you informed on any arrangements."

A man in his 20s was subsequently arrested following the crash, and a car has been seized for examination as part of the Garda investigation.

The man has since been released without charge and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.