A local councillor has spoken of the “unimaginable heartbreak” of the family of Mia Lily O’Keefe, the 16-year-old girl who passed away after a hit-and-run in Co Meath on Saturday.
It comes as tributes poured in for the teenager. Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe was walking her dog on the Slane Road in Navan after 8pm on Saturday when she was hit by a car. Both she and her dog Bowie were killed.
On Monday, a man who had been arrested in connection with the incident was released without charge, Gardaí said. The driver of the car, a man in his 20s, had been arrested following the hit-and-run, with his car seized by gardaí for a technical and forensic examination.
The teenager suffered “catastrophic” injuries and later passed away in hospital.
Local Meath West Cllr. Emer Tóibín said: “Our hearts go out to the family of the young girl who tragically lost her life in a road accident Saturday evening while out for a walk with her dog. It is an unspeakable tragedy.
“We in Aontú extend our deepest sympathies to the family at this incredibly sad time. The depth of sorrow and loss they are enduring is beyond words, and our thoughts and prayers are with them as they face this unimaginable heartbreak. May Mia Lily O’Keefe rest in peace and may her family draw strength and support from far and wide in the time ahead.”
A Go Fund Me has since been set up to help the devastated family of the Navan teenager, and has already raised close to €30,000.
The page, set up by a relative to cover the cost of funeral expenses, said that the teenager was “just moments from her home” when the collision occurred, and the driver did not stop.
“She was only 16 years old and had her whole life ahead of her. She leaves behind her heartbroken Mam Louise, Dad Stephen, her sister Katelyn, and her brothers Kai, Zack and Cole, along with so many friends and loved ones who are devastated by her loss,” the page reads.
Mia Lily’s father Stephe O’Keeffe has pleaded with any witnesses to come forward, adding in a post on social media that his heart is “smashed” and he is “broken.”
Mia Lily was a fifth year student at Loreto Secondary School in Navan, who paid tribute to her today.
The school said: “Loreto St Michael’s and the whole Loreto Community is deeply saddened by the tragic death of our 5th year student Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe. We would like to express our sincere condolences to Mia Lily’s family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.
“As a school we have support structures in place to help all students and we have sought guidance from NEPS (National Educational Psychology Services). We will keep you informed on any arrangements.
“Lord, we come to you in our sorrow and shock at the death of Mia Lily. We thank you for the gift of her life and the joy she brought to the school. We pray for her family – surround them with your love and comfort them in this deep loss. Be with her friends and classmates, helping us to support one another. We place Mia Lily into your loving hands, trusting she is at peace. Amen”.
Gardaí said earlier today that they are continuing to investigate the accident, adding that a file will be prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and that investigations are ongoing.