THE FAMILY of a tourist killed alongside his partner in a tragic horse and cart accident at a Kerry tourist spot have spoken of their deep shock.
62-year-old Normand Larose and 64-year-old Rosalyn Joy Few were killed on Monday afternoon in an accident at the well-known Gap of Dunloe in County Kerry.
The couple, originally from Phoenix, Arizona were spending their Easter holiday with Ms Few’s daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren and were staying in the Killarney area.
Niece of the deceased, Maude Larose, told the Irish Independent that her uncle would be sorely missed and described him as a “very happy person who loved life very much.
“He always took care of the people he loved, the whole family is shocked by this tragedy.
“I know he would want us to remember him with his smile and his jokes.”
A Garda investigation has now been launched into the tragedy.
Early reports suggested that the cause of the crash was that the horse became startled and bolted, leading to the couple being thrown from the cart and falling 20ft down steep terrain.
Lord Mayor of Killarney Niall Kelleher said that there are “lessons to be learned” from the tragic accident as he opened a book of condolences in Killarney yesterday with dozens of locals arriving to pass on their respects.
Around 30 locals also gathered outside the horse and cart yard near Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the Gap of Dunloe, where the couple had begun their day.
A Garda liaison officer has been assisting the family and it is understood a diplomat from the US embassy had also travelled to offer support.
