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23rd April 2024
12:16pm BST
Tributes have poured in for a husband, father of three and rugby coach who passed away following a motorcycle crash in Cork at the weekend.
The man has been named locally as rugby coach Niall Murphy, 60s, who was involved in the single vehicle collision that occurred at around 6.45pm on Sunday (21 April) on the R579 at Glen South in Banteer.
"The driver of the motorcycle, a male aged in his 60s, was fatally injured following the collision," a Garda spokesperson said on Monday.
Mr Murphy was a member of Cork rugby club Highfield RFC, who published a statement on its website following the crash, which reads:
"It was with a huge sense of shock and sadness that we heard of the sudden and untimely passing of our member and friend Niall Murphy as a result of an accident on his way home from the J1 game on Sunday last.
"Niall was a loyal and committed member of the Highfield family who contributed a number of years to coaching in our under-age section and was a regular pitch-side for many adult games over the years.
"The sympathy of all at Highfield RFC is extended to his wife, Margaret, and his children Mairéad, Jack, Matthew and the entire Murphy family at this sad time. May Niall Rest in Peace."
The death notice on RIP.ie for Mr. Murphy also reads: "On April 21st, 2024, unexpectedly, Niall, dearly loved husband of Margaret (née Ryan), and much loved father of Mairéad, Jack and Matthew and loving brother of Deirdre.
"Sadly missed by his loving wife and family, sister, mother-in-law Peggy, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives and friends."
Many have taken to the condolences section of the RIP.ie page to leave tributes for Niall.
One person wrote: "Deepest condolences and sympathy to Niall's friends and family on his sudden passing. A charming and engaging man if ever there was one.
"I shall miss our canteen chats and his playlists dearly."
Another said: "Margaret, Mairéad, Jack, Matthew and Deirdre, we are truly sorry to hear of the sudden and devastating loss of your dear Niall. Words feel inadequate.
"We were fortunate enough to know Niall, and his popularity demonstrates what a great person he was. May Niall’s warmth continue to shine through in the memories of those lucky enough to have known him."
A third person wrote: "Our sincere condolences to Margaret, Mairéad, Jack, Matthew, Niall’s extended family and his wide circle of friends on your sudden and terrible loss. May you all find coping strength at this difficult time.
"Niall was a great guy. I have fond memories of many Saturdays at Highfield coaching with Niall, our home and away games and the clubhouse coffees afterwards... It’s so sad to hear of his passing."
Mr. Murphy's RIP.ie page also reads: "Reposing at the Wilton Funeral Home, Sarsfield Road of Jerh. O’Connor Ltd; On Wednesday (April 24th) from 5.00pm to 6.00pm.
"Requiem Mass at 11.00am on Thursday (April 25th) in the Church of the Holy Spirit, Dennehy’s Cross which can be viewed here. Funeral afterwards to St. James’ Cemetery, Chetwynd."
Gardaí have appealed to any person who may have witnessed the crash to contact them.
"Any road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) who were travelling in the vicinity of Banteer and Nad, between 6.00pm and 7.30pm yesterday evening, are asked to make this available to Gardaí," a spokesperson said on Monday.
"Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Mallow Garda Station on 022 31450, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station."
Main image via RIP.ie
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