A British toddler has been killed by a Jeep while on holiday in the Republic of Ireland.
It is understood the boy, who was under two, was staying at a property in County Roscommon with his parents.
Irish police said the boy was hit by the car near Ballinagare shortly after 9am on Friday.
He received treatment at the scene, but was later pronounced dead. His body was taken to the morgue at University Hospital Galway for post-mortem examination.
No other injuries were reported as a result of the collision.
The boy was killed near the house where he and his family had stayed. It is understood that his parents often visited the area.
Fianna Fail councilor Paschal Fitzmaurice said members of the local community were “shocked and saddened” by the child’s death.
“Our sympathies go out to the family on this sad occasion. I want to send our condolences to the family and let them know that they are in our thoughts and prayers,” he said.
Tom Crosby, independent councilor and cathaoirleach for Roscommon County Council, said the community had been devastated by the “horrible accident”.
“It was horrible,” he added.
“As cathaoirleach of the council, I want to send my sincere condolences to the boy’s family and friends and to all the neighbours. This is such a tragedy.
“The incident was so unfortunate in the way it happened. It’s a tight-knit community and the region is in total shock.
“It’s not a typical place for holiday homes but it is a quiet place for visitors.”
The police are appealing to road users who may have video footage to make it available to them and for any witnesses to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact Boyle Garda Station on 0719664620 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
