Breaking: Motorcyclist dies after collision on R519 near Kilmeedy
A 50-something motorcyclist has died following a road traffic collision with a car on the R519 at Ballykevin, near Kilmeedy, in west County Limerick. Gardaí confirmed the fatal incident occurred on Sunday, prompting an urgent appeal for witnesses to come forward as investigators work to establish the sequence of events.
What happened and where
Emergency services were alerted to the incident on the R519, a rural route linking several small communities in west Limerick. The crash involved a motorcycle and a car. While initial reports indicate a single-vehicle incident, Gardaí have not ruled out the possibility of other contributing factors and are urging anyone who may have seen the moments leading up to the collision to contact them. The exact time of the collision and the make or model of the vehicles involved have not been released as the investigation continues.
Response from emergency services
Paramedics and local responders attended the scene, where the motorcyclist was pronounced dead. Gardaí have described the response as rapid, but the injuries sustained were fatal. The road was closed for a period to facilitate examinations and traffic management, with diversions in place while investigators collected evidence at Ballykevin.
Garda appeal for witnesses
Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who might have dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in information about the movements of the car and motorcyclist in the moments preceding the collision, as well as any other vehicles that may have been in the vicinity.
“If you were in the Ballykevin area this Sunday and saw anything that could help our investigation, please contact Gardai,” a spokesperson said. “Your information will be treated in confidence.”
Impact on the community
Road traffic incidents of this nature often send shockwaves through small towns and rural communities. Local residents may be left with questions about road safety, traffic patterns, and the factors that contributed to the crash. Gardaí typically remind motorists to remain vigilant, adhere to speed limits, and avoid distractions, especially on rural road networks where visibility can be limited and weather conditions may change suddenly.
What happens next
Investigators will analyse road-safety measures, vehicle telemetry, and any available CCTV or dashcam footage to reconstruct the events. A post-mortem examination will determine the exact cause of death, and investigators will continue collecting statements from witnesses to piece together the timeline. The Garda Síochána Traffic Bureau will oversee the inquiry, with updates provided as information becomes available.
How to contact Gardaí
People with information are urged to contact local Gardaí or the Garda Confidential Line. When reporting, provide as much detail as possible, including the approximate time of the collision, the direction of travel, and any other vehicles observed in the vicinity.
Safety reminders for rural roads
Rural roads like the R519 require careful driving. Motorcyclists are advised to wear appropriate protective gear and maintain visibility through lighting and reflective clothing. Drivers should exercise caution when passing cyclists and motorcyclists, particularly in sections with limited sightlines or uneven road surfaces.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have asked anyone with information to come forward to assist in establishing the facts surrounding this tragic incident. Our thoughts are with the motorcyclist’s family and friends as the community processes this loss.
