Man (43) dies in Offaly crash after car is hit by crane

Sean Ryan

Tributes have been paid to a man who lost his life in an horrific accident in Co Offaly on Wednesday morning.

The incident took place around 6:40am on the Clonbullogue to Edenderry road near Drumcooly in Co Offaly.

Gardaí say a crane being carried by a truck came loose and struck two cars. One person has died; however, no other injuries have been reported.

The man has been named locally as Stephen Mooney (43) who is a native of Edenderry in Co Offaly. The local community has been comforting his partner and family following the tragedy.

Locals paid tribute to Mr Mooney who was well-known locally and had a passion for motorbikes.

One local said: "Rip bud you were one of the good ones. Condolences to all your family at this sad time."

Another said it was "a dark day with a dark cloud hanging over Edenderry’’.

Emergency services remain at the scene and gardaí are asking motorists to avoid the area.

A local diversion is in place with only residents in the area allowed to use the road.