There is deep shock and sadness in Laois today following the news of the tragic passing of a dad and his son in Turkey.
Eoin Fitzpatrick (aged in his 30s), from Mountmellick, and his son Dylan (10) from Portlaoise, died on Monday when the moped they were travelling on collided with a bus.
Turkish media are reporting that the tragic incident occurred at about 3.30pm local time in the tourist town of Alanya.
It is believed that they were on holiday with Eoin’s older son Cian, aged 15, as well as his partner and her son who are from Mountmellick.
Eoin, the son of Frank Fitzpatrick who owned a car dealership in Mountmellick, works in a motors business in Portarlington.
Speaking to RTE Radio One, Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley, who is a neighbour of Dylan, confirmed the awful news.
He said that it was his understanding the father and son were running some ‘last-minute errands’ before their return to Ireland when they were involved in the crash.
Deputy Stanley said that there had been “shock and devastation” in Portlaoise when news began to trickle in about the crash on Monday evening.
He understands that he mother of the children is travelling to Turkey today.
He extended his deepest sympathies to the families involved in this awful tragedy.
Deputy Stanley said: “The community here in Portlaoise will rally around both families.”
Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan also offered his condolences to the families.
He said: “I wish to offer my sincere condolences to the families involved in the awful tragedy in Turkey and understand that the Department of Foreign is providing Consular assistance at this difficult time.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that they are providing assistance to the family.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.
“As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of any specific case,” a statement said.
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