Ireland mourns teenagers killed in road accident

Photo by Niklas Ohlrogge on Unsplash

Prayers are being said across Ireland for four young people who died in a road accident in Co Tipperary on Friday night.

Luke McSweeney, 24, his sister Grace, 18, from Clonmel, Nicole Murphy, 18, from Ballypatrick, and Zoey Coffey, 18, from Kilsheelan died following the collision which occurred shortly after 7.30pm.

Fr Michael Toomey, Parish Priest Administrator in Ardfinnan & Newcastle/ Fourmilewater who also offers a weekly Mass on RTE News said: "Sometimes no words seem adequate when a tragedy like what occurred in Clonmel happens. No words can give comfort at this time. The families are devastated and in deep shock at the moment." He said the entire community was supporting the bereaved family. Fr Michael also paid tribute to the police and emergency services that had attended the scene.

On his Twitter page Fr Michael said there would be a Prayer Vigil tonight (Sunday 27 August) at 6.30pm in Kickham Plaza led by local clergy and the Mayor of Clonmel.

Fr Michael will be offering a special Mass for the repose of the souls of Luke, Grace, Nicole and Zoey on Monday that will be broadcast at 10.30am on RTE News Now.

Clonmel Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan said in a statement: "We are all shocked by this tragic news of four young lives lost in the car accident yesterday evening near Clonmel, Co Tipperary. I offer my sincere sympathy to all the families, friends, classmates and teachers of those who have died. Together, with the whole community of the people of Clonmel, the diocese and throughout the country, we will be there to stand beside and support the heart-broken and all those affected by this tragedy. May God help all to have strength and may He take those who have died so young into his loving arms. Holy Mary pray for us now and at the hour of our death."