By Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

4 minutes read. Updated 4:00AM GMT Fri, 28, 2024

A devastating accident involving an electric scooter and a bus has claimed the lives of two teenage boys in Waterford City. The collision, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, has left the local community in mourning and sparked a call for increased safety regulations for electric scooters.

The tragic incident took place on the R680 Cork Road in Waterford City shortly before 2:10 am. According to Gardaí, a 15-year-old boy, who was riding the electric scooter, was pronounced dead at the scene. His companion, another teenage boy, survived the initial impact but succumbed to his injuries later at Waterford University Hospital.

The bus involved in the collision remained at the scene with a shattered windscreen, indicative of the severity of the crash. Garda forensic collision investigators conducted a thorough examination before the road was reopened later on Thursday.

The Mayor of Waterford, Cllr Joe Kelly, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a “tragedy.” He emphasized the vulnerability of electric scooter users and called for more stringent regulations to ensure their safety. Cllr Kelly also noted that the 15-year-old victim was a well-known and loved figure in the community, actively involved in local soccer clubs.

Waterford Sinn Féin councillor John Hearne, who lives near the crash site, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the close-knit nature of the local community and their readiness to support the grieving families.

Gardaí have appealed to witnesses, especially those with dashcam footage, to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation. They are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who was on Cork Road between 1:45 am and 2:15 am on Thursday morning.

This incident brings the number of road fatalities in Ireland this year to 92, an increase from the same period last year. The rise in such tragic events has underscored the need for improved safety measures for all road users, particularly with the growing popularity of electric scooters.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Waterford Garda Station at (051) 305300, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any local Garda station.

Garda family liaison officers have been assigned to support the families of the deceased teenagers during this difficult time. The entire Waterford community is rallying around the families, offering condolences and assistance as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the exact circumstances that led to this tragic event and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.

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