A four-year-old boy was knocked down and killed by a van just yards from his home.
Charlie McDonagh was seriously injured by the impact at the Ardnacassa estate area of Longford town just before 3pm and he died a short time later.
He was playing near his home when he was struck by the vehicle on Wednesday.
Charlie was the eldest of three young children and his parents Charlie and Pearl are popular and respected members of the local Travelling community.
Gardai and emergency services rushed to the scene to tend to the stricken boy who was brought to hospital, but he sadly died shortly after the impact.
Longford Municipal District Cathaoirleach Peggy Nolan said: “There is an air of gloom hanging over the entire community and our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
“People are saying what a terrible tragedy and they are shocked.
“I got a phone call earlier from one local woman who was in tears and she was saying people will be hugging their children tighter and holding them closer tonight and that is so true.
“Everyone’s thoughts and prayers are with the family.
“I don’t know who knocked down the child but God look down on them as well.
“There’s two families whose hearts are torn out of them tonight.”
It is understood the family was being comforted by relatives last night.
Some local residents, who did not want to be identified, said they believed ramps could have previously installed on the road.
Gardai have asked anyone with any information to contact Longford station on 043 3350570, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
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