Fermoy teenager killed in traffic incident near Lismore was keen competitive cyclist

The cyclist who died following a collision with a parked lorry in Lismore, Co Waterford yesterday has been named locally as Shane O’Brien.

Mr O’Brien was set to turn 17 in two weeks’ time, and was from the Clondulane area of Cork, near Fermoy, where residents are “shattered” by the news, a local councillor has said.

He was a keen cyclist, competing internationally with junior team CAMS Majaco, and was also a member of Fermoy Cycling Club. It is believed he was in training at the time of the incident.

Gardaí issued an appeal for witnesses last night following the fatal road traffic collision involving which occurred shortly after 11am in Ballygalane.

A garda spokesperson said at the time that a juvenile male pedal cyclist was fatally injured and was pronounced dead at the scene, and the driver of the parked lorry also involved in the collision was uninjured.

His body was removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Waterford.

A spokesperson for Fermoy Cycling Club said: “We are devastated by the tragic loss of Shane O’Brien, a valued member of our cycling club, following an accident on June 16.

“Shane was an extremely talented and enthusiastic cyclist whose passion for the sport, determination, and kindness touched everyone who knew them. He was a leader and idol to the many young cyclists who knew him both locally and nationally.

“Shane was following his dream to become a professional cyclist and his dedication to this goal has been evident for everyone to see. Shane’s loss will be deeply felt throughout our club and the wider cycling community.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Shane’s family, friends, teammates, and all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.”

Local Fianna Fáil councillor Frank O’Flynn told

The Echo

: “The whole area is shattered, numbed, and finding it very hard to come to terms with this very sad news of Shane’s death at such a young age.

“He was a very talented cyclist who was involved in cycling locally and abroad. My thoughts and prayers are with the family – it’s a very closely knit area, and the community will gather around them.” 

Investigations are ongoing, and gardaí are appealing to anyone who witnessed this collision to come forward.

Road users who may have camera footage (including dashcam) and were travelling on the N72 between Lismore and Cappoquin between 10.30am and 11.15am on June 16th are asked to make it available to investigating gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Dungarvan Garda Station on (058) 48600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.