The man and his son who died in a tragic crash outside Killeigh have been named locally as Vincent ‘Finch’ Rossi and Sully Rossi.
Vincent, who was originally from Limerick but had been living in Portlaoise, also had two other children involved in the crash.
Hayley, 9, is in a critical condition in Crumlin Children’s Hospital while son Daniel, 8, is being treated at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore.
Fr John Stapleton, parish priest in Killeigh and originally from Vicarstown, said his thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased and those that had to work at the scene of the accident.
He said: “Our thoughts are with the families as they try to cope with this terrible news. It is a very difficult and traumatic time.
“When we saw the helicopters in the area, we knew it was very serious.
“We’re also praying for the first responders at this time.”
Gardaí at Tullamore are appealing for witnesses and information on the serious road traffic collision on the N80 Tullamore – Mountmellick road at approximately 5pm, on Sunday May 27.
Gardaí and Emergency Services were at the scene where it’s believed a car and an articulated lorry collided.
Witnesses are asked to contact Tullamore Garda Station on 057 9327600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
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