'Colm was a wonderful player but above all, a wonderful person'
Tributes have poured in for the young man who passed away after the car he was travelling in was involved in a collision outside Kinnegad on Monday night.
Colm Murray (20) was the passenger in a car that struck a parked car and a wall at Griffinstown near Kinnegad shortly before 9.30pm on Monday.
A talented sportsman, Colm played football for Coralstown/Kinnegad, hurling for Raharney and represented Westmeath at underage level.
In a post on social media last evening, Westmeath GAA said that “all associated with Westmeath GAA are very saddened to learn of the passing of Colm Murray, who represented both Coralstown-Kinnegad (football) and Raharney (hurling)”.
“Colm was one of the most talented young footballers in the county and he played an important role for Coralstown-Kinnegad in last year's senior championship as he scored two late points to earn his side a win over Garrycastle.
“Colm was also involved in Coralstown-Kinnegad's last senior game to date in their championship quarter-final versus Killucan.
“Colm played hurling with Raharney and was a part of the Intermediate squad that were defeated by Ringtown in the 2022 championship final.
“The fast attacker had also donned the maroon and white jersey with pride at underage level.
“All at Westmeath GAA send our thoughts and prayers to Colm's parents and sister, and to all his family, friends and teammates at this extremely heartbreaking time.”
In a Facebook message posted yesterday evening, Coralstown/Kinnegad GFC said that it was “ with great sadness that we announce the tragic passing of our great friend and clubman Colm Murray”.
“Colm started playing with us when he was five years old.
“As he progressed up the age categories, it was clear to many that Colm had a very skilful left foot. He scored many fantastic points and goals throughout the years. He will always be remembered as a fantastic footballer with a smile always on his face and a great sense of humour.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to his parents Eddie and Helen and his sister Therese.”
In a post on its Facebook page, Raharney Hurling Club said: “Raharney as a community along with our sister club Coralstown/Kinnegad GAA are in deep mourning today at the sudden passing of our club mate and friend Colm Murray.
“Colm was a wonderful player but above all, a wonderful person.
“We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the Murray and Kearney families,as well as to his many friends and club mates across the two clubs.
"Colm played hurling at all age groups with Raharney and with great talent, soon became part of the underage set up from U14/15/16/17 /18 and on to senior.
“A winner of a Leinster U16 Club league medal as well a Westmeath County minor Championship in 2018, Colm was most recently a constant member of the Raharney Intermediate Hurling team where he proudly wore the number 5 jersey. His most recent performance for the club was in the Intermediate county final last October 2022.
“He will be very sadly missed by all associated with Raharney Hurling.”
Columba College, Killucan also posted a moving tribute to past pupil Colm, who graduated in 2021, describing him as “a kind hearted, remarkable young man and truly was the life and soul of his year group”.
"Colm always had a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone. He was a wonderful friend to all and was a fantastic role model in our school. He seized every opportunity that came his way and always gave 100% to everything.
"An avid sportsman he took part in and excelled in a variety of sports in Columba College, being recognised for his achievements both on and off the pitch on numerous occasions. It was our privilege to have known and taught Colm.
“We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Colm's parents Helen and Eddie, his sister Therese, as well as to his extended family, friends and GAA Clubs.”
Colm is survived by his parents Eddie and Helen and his sister Therese.