Tributes to teenager who died in Mayo road tragedy

Warm tributes are being paid to the 14-year-old boy who died in a road tragedy in south Mayo last Tuesday evening.

Zach Quinn, Woodfield, Cappagh Road, Knocknacarra, Galway, suffered fatal injuries after being struck by a truck on the R345 Neale to Cong road.

He was beloved son of John and Julie and dearly-loved brother of Isobella and Noah.

He is also survived by his granny Maureen, nana Mary, granny Sheena, uncles and aunts Mary and Pat, Timmy and Collette, Claire and Brian, Jill and Dan and Christopher and Casey, all his heartbroken cousins, extended family and friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

In a tribute to the teenager, Betty Hernon, principal of Coláiste Muire Máthair, Galway, where Zach was a second-year student, said he was a “beautiful, kind, fun-loving young man."

“It is with huge sadness that we mourn the passing of second-year student Zach Quinn following a traffic accident.

"Zach was a lovely lad who contributed greatly to the college community and will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis,” Ms. Hernon said.

The deceased was a member of Loch Lurgan Athletic Club, Galway.

In a tribute, the cub stated: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one our fine young athletes, Zach Quinn.

"Zach tragically lost his life in a traffic accident.

"A kind, fun, gentle soul, Zach was a fine runner, especially in cross country distance running.

"Zach was one of our first members to sign up to Loch Lurgan. He will be sadly missed by all our coaches and especially his friends in Loch Lurgan, of which he had many.

"We offer our heartfelt condolences to Zach's family and friends and any support we can provide.

"Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis."

A tribute by Knocknacarra Soccer Club said Zach was a hugely valued member of the club and will be deeply missed.

"Our thoughts are prayers are with his family at this tragic time," the club statement added.

Reposing in Conneely's Funeral Home, Flood Street, Galway (H91A 798) on Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m.

Requiem Mass takes place on Monday at 12 noon in St. John the Apostle Church, Knocknacarra, prior to interment in Rahoon Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.