Teenage girl who was hit by car on New Year’s Eve dies

A TEENAGER who was struck by a car on New Year’s Eve has died.

Named locally as Róisín O’Donovan, the 16-year-old was crossing Main Street in Ballincollig, Co. Cork on New Year’s Eve when she was hit.

She sustained severe head injuries in the incident, which happened around 7.45pm, and was rushed to Cork University Hospital where she remained on a life support system.

Róisín, a transition year student who had been due to return to school next week, finally lost her battle late on Tuesday night.

According to gardaí, who have renewed their appeal for witnesses, the driver of the car was uninjured but later treated for shock.

The scene of the crash was near the Muskerry Estate, where Róisín lived.

Her grandparents live near the spot where she was struck and it is believed that she had either just been to see them or had been on her way to see them.

Fine Gael councillor Derry Canty, who passed the scene shortly after the crash, said last night: ‘This is heart-wrenching for the family.’

Fianna Fáil councillor Daithí Ó Donnabháin added: ‘A bright light has gone out.’

Róisín, who was a student at Ballincollig Community School, had been due to join her school friends on a forthcoming trip to France.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact Gurranabraher Garda Station on 021 494 6200.