Laytown community "shocked to core" after horror smash claims life of popular father of four

The community in Laytown has been left "shocked to its core" after a horror smash in Duleek claimed the life of a popular father of four this morning.

Named locally Dave Conroy (40s) from Laytown lost his life in a multi vehicle collision that also claimed the life of another man near Duleek.

The three vehicle collision occurred on the the R152 at Keenogue outside Duleek on the Drogheda-Kilmoon Road at around 6.40am.

The family man and only occupant of the van he was driving was pronounced dead at the scene.

A second man in his 30s believed to be from Ardcath, who was the driver and only occupant of a car, was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda and he subsequently died from his injuries.

Local councillor Sharon Tolan said the community was "rocked to the core" at the loss of the "popular gentleman" who was heavily involved with Laytown United FC. She added:

"The community in Laytown are in total shock. David was a very dedicated father, husband and club member. He did a lot to bring Laytown UTD football club to where they are, he put in a lot of hours training teams as a coach and committee member, he was a gentleman.

"The community is devastated and thoughts are with his wife Jackie and his kids."

In a post on social media East Meath UTD said:

"It is with deep regret and sadness that we have to inform you of the unexpected passing of David Conroy.

"For those of you who don’t know David. Over the years David has contributed greatly to the wellbeing and development of the children in our community thorough his dedicated ongoing involvement with Laytown United Football Club.

"As a mark of respect to David and his family, East Meath's grounds are now closed and training suspended until Monday 23rd August - with the exception of tomorrows FAI Summer Camp.

"All home matches and academy are cancelled for the weekend ahead.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to David’s wife and his children."

Taking to Facebook Donacarney Celtic said:

"It is with a very sad heart that we write this message to pay our deepest condolences on the tragic passing of Dave Conroy and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends and all at Laytown United at this very sad time.

"Dave was an absolute gentleman and a true community man who dedicated so much time to football locally at his beloved Laytown United and also in Drogheda United. All training and matches are cancelled till Monday as a mark of respect. Dave from all at Donacarney Celtic may you rest in peace."

Local Senator Sharon Keogan is calling for safety measures to be introduced on the notoriously dangerous stretch of road. She added:

“It is absolutely tragic that two people lost their lives this morning.

“It is a very dangerous part of the road and this area has been highlighted a number of times by the residents and it has been brought to the attention of the county council for a number of years.

“I am going to get the road safety officer out to look at it and I will be calling on Meath County Council to take action on that road immediately.”

Local Fianna Fail Councillor Stephen Mc Kee commented:

“I’m shocked at the news; it is a terrible tragedy and I extend my sympathies to the families involved. it is a dangerous stretch of road at Keenogue where the accident occurred and I will be calling on Meath County Council to improve safety on that road.

“Cars tend to go very fast on that road and there has been a few accidents and near misses there in the last few years of residents pulling out of their driveways or turning into their houses, unfortunately it took two people losing their lives to once more highlight the danger of this area.”

Gardaí in Ashbourne are appealing for witnesses to the collision, they particularly want to hear from any road users who were travelling on the R152 between Kilmoon Cross and Duleek between 6.20am and 6.50am this morning and who may have dashcam footage.

The road remained closed this afternoon to allow for examination of the scene to take place and local diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01 801 0600 or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.