Pensioner (71) killed in Tipperary accident named locally

Sean Ryan

A 71-year-old man who died in a collision on Co Tipperary has been named locally as Pat Skehan.

Skehan was killed in a single-vehicle crash shortly after 2.15pm on Sunday. The accident took place on the R660 on the Holycross to Ballycahill road.

Skehan was a publican in Holycross village and has been described by locals as "an absolute gentleman".

Gardaí are pursuing one line of inquiry - that Skehan may have suffered a medical incident.

Paying tribute Independent TD Michael Lowry who lives in Holycross said: “Pat was well known locally. He was a local publican and was a reserved man with a quiet disposition. He had successfully fought cancer over the last two years so it is particularly tragic that he should die in these circumstances.”

Fianna Fáil TD Ryan O’Meara said: "Sincere sympathy to the Skehan family on the sad passing of Pat. May his gentle soul rest in peace."

His remains will repose in Hugh Ryan's Funeral Home, Slievenamon Road, Thurles on Thursday 12th February from 5pm to 7pm. Requiem Mass will be held at 11.30am at Holycross Abbey on Friday 13th February. Burial will happen afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward. Road users who may have camera footage, including dash-cam and were travelling on the R660 at Holycross around the time of the collision are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Thurles Garda Station on (0504) 25100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.