TRIBUTES have been paid to a pair of close friends who died when they were struck by a car while out walking in Co. Galway.
Maureen Dooley and Deidre Kilmartin, both in their mid-50s, were killed when a car collided with a second vehicle and careened into them in Ballinasloe on Thursday evening.
They were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on Station Road at around 6pm.
The friends were both married with children and were prominent figures in the local community in Ballinasloe.
Ms Kilmartin worked at a local veterinary surgery and is survived by her husband and two children.
Ms Dooley was mathematics teacher at Marist College, Athlone. She is survived by her husband and three children.
Local Sinn Féin Cllr Dermot Connolly said there was "a deep sadness" in the town following the shocking accident.
“It is devastating for the whole community in Ballinasloe. News you don’t want to hear,” he said.
“It’s just one of those sad occurrences that you’re hoping wouldn’t visit your community. But it’s in ours this morning and it’s devastating.
“They were lovely mild people who would meet and always with a smile.
"Hard working, involved in the community. Local people from well-established families that were well-known in the area."
Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to call Ballinasloe Garda Station on 090 963 1890, The Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
