'I wasn't sure who was in the car,' says priest at scene of horrific Mayo crash

A priest from Mayo has described his shock and devastation following the fatal crash that claimed the lives of a mother and daughter in Mayo yesterday evening.

Aisling Moore and her eight-year-old daughter Abbigael, who were from the Swinford area, were killed following a collision between a car and a truck at Lismoran between Foxford and Swinford yesterday (Tuesday June 2) at approximately 5.45pm. 

The parish priest in Foxford, Fr Padraig Costello spoke of the sadness he felt when he was called to pray for the mother and daughter at the scene.

Speaking to RTÉ, Fr Costello said,

"So I went out and it was a devastating scene there.

"All the emergency services were there, the Gardaí, fire brigade, ambulances, and I really have to compliment them on the way they do their work.

"They took me down to the car and I said prayers, and blessed the couple, the mother and her daughter, I wasn't sure who was in the car, but I was told it was a mother and a daughter.

"All I could think of was her family, because they would be getting the news later on. It was just so, so sad."

Tributes have also been paid by Swinford Atheltics Club, in which little Abbigael was a member, who posted a heartfelt message on Facebook earlier today to convey their shock and sadness at the devastating news that has left their community reeling.

The post said, 

"The Swinford Athletic community are in shock and disbelief as we heard of the awful tragedy to hit our community. News of the fatal crash claiming the lives of Aisling and Abbigael has rocked us to the core.

"Abbigael became a member of Swinford AC at age 5 in our little athletic group, Abbigael was the first child waiting for the gate to open every Tuesday evening rail hail or shine and never missed a session, such was her love and enthusiasm for running, cartwheels and having fun.

"Her bubbly personality, beautiful smile and the sound of her laugh will be just some of the things we will treasure. Abbigael moved on to our junior athletics programme and only recently on the 16th of July representing Swinford Community games at the Mayo finals narrowly missing out on a medal.

"Aisling helped out in the club as much as possible, always ready for her supervision duties and the first to offer if we needed help in running any event. They were both valued and respected members of our community we are heartbroken beyond words.

"Aisling and Abbigael, fly high with the angels. May you both Rest in peace

"Sincere sympathy to all the Moore and Tournie family in particular Eddie, Louise, Jack and family club members and all your many friends at this incredibly sad time."

The scene has been examined and the road has since reopened to traffic. Post-mortem examinations have been arranged.

Gardaí are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were traveling on the N26 between Swinford and Foxford between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Tuesday evening are asked to provide this footage to Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ballina Garda Station at 096 20560, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.