Tragedy Toddler dies after being struck by car in driveway of his home in West Cork

An 18-month-old baby boy has died after he was struck by a car in the driveway of his home in Skibbereen in West Cork this afternoon.

The incident happened shortly after 5pm today in Tralispean.

An investigation has been launched by gardaí, however the incident is being treated as a tragic accident.

Gardaí and the fire brigade attended at the scene within minutes after the alarm was raised.

The toddler was rushed by ambulance to Cork University Hospital. However, he tragically died a short time later.

A post mortem will take place tomorrow.

"Shortly after 5pm on Tuesday 25th January 2022, Gardaí from Skibbereen and Emergency Services attended at the scene of an incident near Skibbereen, Co Cork. A toddler sustained serious injuries after being stuck by a car on the driveway of a house. He was taken from the scene by Ambulance to Cork University Hospital where he has since been pronounced dead,” a garda statement read.

The Coroner has been notified and a inquest will take place in due course.

Paul Hayes, a local independent councillor for West Cork said he just learned of the accident late last night following a meeting.

“It’s absolutely tragic,” he told the Irish Independent, adding that he couldn’t comprehend what it must be like for the child’s family.

“Clearly it was an accident. As a parent myself I can’t comprehend what it must be like for the family and the driver as well.”

“I offer my condolences,” Mr Hayes added.