Communities reeling from “shock and disbelief” are preparing for the funerals of two teenagers fatally injured when their car collided with a tractor on Friday evening last in Cloonfad.
James Daniels (13) and Harry Fagan (19), both lost their lives in the collision at Lavallyroe, Cloonfad as they were travelling to watch Cloonfad United F.C. senior team play Skyvalley Rovers.
The game was abandoned immediately when news emerged of the tragedy.
There were emotional scenes on the pitch as players from both sides tried to come to terms with what had happened.
Both youths were talented and valued members of Cloonfad United F.C.
In a statement, the club says what unfolded as they gathered for the game on Friday “has left the Cloonfad community in complete shock, numbness and disbelief”.
“James Daniels was a member of our under14 squad that recently won the RDYSL Division One championship and he scored a number of goals during their campaign.
“James loved being with his teammates and friends and had a lovely friendly personality to match.
“Harry Fagan played for Cloonfad all the way through our underage program . Playing mostly in the midfield he always gave his best.
“Of course people involved in the game locally would be well aware of the Fagan name. “They have given so much to our club in various different platforms and are so generous with their time to all local volunteer groups.
“Our hearts are broken for both families and we send our prayers and support to the families involved.
The tragedy unleashed a nationwide outpouring of sympathy.
In one online tribute Harry is described as “a great lad who lit up a room”.
In a message of condolence to the Daniels family, James is described as “a handsome, beautiful boy”
The message continues: “There are no words. Life can be so cruel”.
James Daniels of Swinefield, Cloonfad, Ballyhaunis, is survived by his parents, Karen and Chris, and brother.
His remains will repose at the P.J. Keane Funeral Home, Cloonfad from 5 p.m. to 7 pm this evening.
Cremation will follow Requiem Mass at 12 noon tomorrow in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloonfad.
Harry Fagan of Lavalleyroe, Cloonfad, Ballyhaunisis survived by his parents, Ger and Trish and brothers.
His remains will repose at his home in Lavallyroe tomorrow evening from 5 p.m. to 8 pm.
Burial will take place in Cloonfad Cemetery on Wednesday following Requiem Mass in the local church at 12 noon.
Garda investigations are continuing into the tragedy which occurred on the N83 on the approach to Cloonfad from the Ballyhaunis direction.
A third teenager who was in the crashed car is recovering at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, from his injuries.
The driver of the tractor, a man in his fifties, was treated in hospital but his injuries are not described as life threatening.
