Pilot dies after car crash in Limerick

A PILOT who died following a car accident in county Limerick overnight on Monday has been named locally as Denis Metcalfe from Mallow.

The 25-year-old from Copstown, Mallow died following a single vehicle accident near Banogue.

Investigating gardai are exploring the possibility that Mr Metcalfe may have experienced health difficulties at the time of the accident.

His car collided with a pole at Ballyphillip, Banogue on the N20 Limerick to Cork road at approximately 11.50pm.

According to witnesses, Mr Metcalfe managed to exit the car after it came to a slow stop but he collapsed to the ground moments later.

“Mr Metcalfe was travelling home to Mallow from Shannon Airport where he had been on a pilot training,” said a garda source.

He was tended to by an off duty health professional, gardai confirmed.

He was later taken to University Hospital Limerick where a post mortem will take place.

A section of the N20 Limerick to Cork road was closed overnight and local diversions were put in place to facilitate a garda forensic collision investigation.

The road has since reopened.

Investigating gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact them at Newcastle West garda station on 069-20650, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111 or any garda station.