TRIBUTES have poured in for a young man who died following a crash on the Tipperary/Laois border early this morning.
Gardai and emergency services were alerted to the single-vehicle collision on the R445, Ballaghmore in Borris-in-Ossory at around 3.15am.
The driver of the car, who was the sole occupant, was pronounced dead at the scene.
He has been named locally as Colm Lynch O’Sullivan, 22, who lived in Cloncourse, Ballaghmore, Laois.
Colm was originally from Roscrea in Co Tipperary.
Tributes poured in online for the young man following his tragic death.
One friend wrote: “RIP my friend, many a right laugh we had.
“May you get the best bed in heaven, condolences to the family.”
While another added: “Rest in peace Mush.”
Colm is predeceased by his sister Grace and is survived by his parents, Olive and Con, and brothers, Brendan and Tomas.
No funeral arrangements have been confirmed yet, but his death notice described him as a “dearly loved son” who would be “sadly missed” by his family.
The road was closed for a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators and local diversions were put in place following the fatal accident.
Colm’s body was taken to Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise where a post-mortem examination was carried out.
Gardai are appealing for witnesses to the incident to come forward.
A garda spokesperson said: “Gardai are appealing for witnesses following a fatal single-vehicle collision at Ballaghmore, Borris-in-Ossory, Co. Laois in the early hours of this morning Thursday 26th June 2025.
“Gardai and emergency services were alerted to a collision on the R445 at approximately 3.15am.
“The male driver, sole occupant of the car, aged in his 20s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“His body has been removed to the Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise where a post-mortem examination will take place in due course. The local Coroner has been informed.
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“The road remains closed this morning for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Local diversions are in place.
“Gardai are appealing for witnesses to the incident to come forward.
“Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) from the area between 3am and 3.30am are asked to make it available to Gardai.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Portlaoise Garda Station on (057) 8674100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
“Investigations are ongoing.”
Colm’s death is the 81st fatality on Irish roads this year – which is the very same number as the same period last year.
