Cyclist (17) killed after falling in path of minibus
TRIBUTES have been paid to a teenage cyclist who was killed after he was hit by a minibus.
Max Mason (17) died following the accident in Bettystown, Co Meath, on Tuesday evening.
It is understood the schoolboy was on his way home from the gym at around 5pm when he was struck on the Golf Links Road.
Witnesses said the young man’s bike seemed to fall as he cycled towards his home in the nearby townland of Mornington. He fell into the path of the minibus that was travelling in the same direction.
Gardaí in Laytown are investigating the fatal collision.
A post-mortem will be conducted in the coming days.
Max was a fifth-year student in Coláiste na Hinse in Laytown.
The man driving the minibus, who is in his mid-50s, was uninjured in the crash but is said to be very upset by what had happened.
Garda Forensic Collision Investigators examined the scene and the road was closed for a time as a result.
Local diversions were put in place.
The victim was an only child and his family were too distressed to talk as they gathered to support each other at his home yesterday.
The youngster used to play with his local St Colmcille’s GAA club, which paid tribute to him on its Facebook page on the evening of the accident.
A post read: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of ex-club member and Coláiste na hInse 5th year student Max Mason following a tragic accident on Golf Links Road which occurred today.
“We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his mum Tracy, the Woods family and all his friends.”
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01 8010600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.