A girl of nine was killed and her young brother seriously injured yesterday when they were hit by a car while cycling.
Bridget Ward was pronounced dead at the scene of the Co Galway smash, which left the vehicle overturned on the R358 after the collision.
The two children were hit by the car close to their home between Ballinasloe and Ahascragh Road shortly before noon.
The boy, seven, was rushed to Portinucula Hospital with seriously injuries after the Easter Sunday crash.
Former Communications Minister Denis Naughten described his shock at the accident.
The Roscommon Galway TD wrote on Facebook: “What a terrible tragedy on Easter Sunday.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those involved and their families at this time.”
A local person, who did not want to be named, said: “It’s horrific and savage and something they’ll never get over.
Girl, 9, killed and boy, 7, seriously injured after being hit by car while cycling in Co Galway
“The girl and the young boy were out on two little bikes and I think the car hit the wall and whatever else.” The family live in a Traveller housing accommodation facility between Ballinasloe and Ahascragh in the Creggan area.
“I’d say they weren’t 100 metres from their house. There would have been a couple of accidents there before.”
A Garda spokesman said the road was closed for a forensic examination and appealed for anyone with information to contact Ballinasloe station on 0909 631890.
Tributes were paid online to young Bridget last night with others wishing her brother, whose injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, well in his recovery.
One woman wrote: “RIP little angel... God bless the family and give them strength to carry on.”
Another said: “Beyond heartbreaking. Lord have mercy on that little girl RIP. And God hear our prayers for the little brother, a speedy and full recovery.”
A third added: “So sad your whole world turned upside down, sorry for all the families RIP. Little princess, please God your little brother will be OK.”
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