Teen dies after tragic accident

The Raharney and Killucan areas were plunged into mourning last weekend, after the devastating news that a teenager from the parish lost his life after a tragic accident at Joristown, Raharney.Niall Keenan (15), son of Joe and Frances Keenan, Clonreagh, Killucan, died of his injuries after he was struck by a car while cycling on Saturday afternoon.It is understood that he was cycling with a number of friends when the accident occurred after 5pm on Saturday. Gardaí said that the boy was offered medical assistance at the scene by a neighbour, until ambulance services arrived.He was taken to the Intensive Care Unit at the Midland Regional Hospital at Mullingar, where he was cared for by nurses and staff until his death on Sunday evening.Niall was a member of a highly respected family who have lived in the Killucan/Raharney area for several years, contributing much to parish and community life.A former pupil of St. Mary's National School, Raharney, Niall had just started 5th year at St. Joseph's Secondary School, Rochfortbridge, and received his Junior Certificate results on Wednesday morning last.A focused and diligent student, he was also a talented soccer player and musician.Niall is mourned by his devastated parents Joe and Frances, and his brother Liam, his family, friends and fellow students.He will be removed to St. Brigid's Church, Raharney this morning (Wednesday) at 11.30am after a private repose at his home, with Requiem Mass celebrated for the repose of his soul at 12 noon.Afterwards, Niall will be laid to rest at Rathwire Cemetery.