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06th May 2022

Third year student named as victim in Offaly tractor accident

Kat O'Connor

Shane was a “credit to his parents”

The teenage boy who lost his life in a tractor accident in Offaly has been identified.

The boy has been named as local third-year student Shane Hickey.

Tributes have been pouring in since the teenager’s untimely death last night.

Shane was driving a tractor when it entered a deep drain last night.

Emergency services were called to the scene just after 11 pm on Thursday night, but Shane was sadly pronounced dead.

The young man has been remembered as “gentle”.

Others said he was “a credit to his parents”.

Locals said the teenager was a “lovely and friendly” boy.

The community is said to be shocked by the teenager’s death.

Shane’s old school penned a tribute to the pupil.

“It is with great sadness that we heard this morning of the very untimely and tragic passing of one of our former pupils -Shane Hickey.”

“We extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to Shane’s Dad Richard, to his Mam Paula, to his brothers Alex and Evan, and to all Shane’s family, relations, and friends.

The school added, “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a ainm dílis.”

Shane’s body was removed from the scene of the accident to Tullamore Hospital.

Gardaí confirmed he was fatally injured when the tractor entered the deep drain.

Anyone with information about the tragic accident has been asked to come forward.

Gardaí have also asked road users with video footage to make themselves known.

Anyone with dashcam footage should also come forward.

This footage should be handed over to Gardaí in Offaly as soon as possible.

Witnesses can contact Tullamore Garda Station 057 932 7600.

You can also reach out to the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

We’re keeping Shane’s parents, siblings and loved ones in our thoughts during this harrowing time.