The people of Glencastle and the Belmullet area of north Mayo are shocked and saddened following the death of a local mother of two who was knocked down while out walking.
Thirty-nine-year-old Collette Sweeney, who was fatally injured when she was struck by a van at Bunnahowen, Glencastle, on Wednesday morning, will be laid to rest tomorrow (Saturday ). The deceased was walking on a minor road just before 7am when the tragedy occurred. It is believed that the driver of the van was uninjured. Mrs Sweeney was pronounced dead at the scene and her body was removed to Mayo General Hospital where a post-mortem examination was carried out.
Forensic collision investigators examined the scene and road closures and traffic diversions were in place for a period of time.
A number of events have been cancelled in the local area as a mark of respect, including an International Women’s Day event today (Friday ) at which Mrs Sweeney was nominated for an Appreciation Award.
Her remains repose at McDonnell’s Funeral Home, Belmullet, today (Friday ) from 4pm until 8pm. Removal will take place to the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Glencastle, tomorrow afternoon (Saturday ) for Mass at 2pm, followed by burial in Glencastle new cemetery.
The family have asked that the house remain private with family flowers only and donations, if desired, to Temple Street Children’s Hospital.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Belmullet Garda Station on 097 81910, or the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111.
