Tributes to talented sportsman (19) who died in car accident in Kerry

Sean Ryan

Tributes have been paid to a teenager and talented sportsman who lost his life in a car accident at the weekend.

The crash occurred on Saturday afternoon on the L1029 road at Deerpark, Lixnaw.

The driver, who was aged in his late teens and was travelling alone, was airlifted to Cork University Hospital, where he died on Wednesday. No other injuries were reported and no other vehicles were involved.

He has been named locally as Aidan Forristal, who was a native of the north Kerry parish of Lisnax.

Paying tribute, Parish Priest Fr Anthony O’Sullivan said "the entire community are devastated at the news of the death of a fine young man.".

Locals said that Aidan was a keen sportsman and played hurling with the local Lisnax Gaa club. As a mark of respect all club training has been cancelled this week.

Lisnax Club chair, John McElliogtt, said: "He was a lovely young lad to deal with. He usually played in the forwards and would always chip in with a few scores."

His family were also well known in Athletics circles. The local community were rallying around Aidan’s parents William and Tara and his siblings.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses, particularly any road users who may have dash-cam footage and who were travelling in the area on August 2nd between 5:15pm and 5:45pm, to contact Listowel Garda Station on 068 50820, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

No funeral arrangements have been confirmed as yet but will be confirmed later on Friday. Mr Forristal is the 98th person to die on Irish roads this year.