Boy, 2, killed in Limerick hit-and-run named locally

A toddler from Abbeycourt, Rathkeale has been named as Peter Mulcaire, the two-year-old victim of a hit-and-run in Co Limerick. The child was struck by a vehicle near his home earlier this afternoon and taken to University Hospital Limerick with severe injuries. Despite emergency treatment, Peter Mulcaire was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Gardaí have confirmed that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. The incident took place just after 3:50pm in the town, situated roughly 30km southwest of Limerick city. Prayers for the young boy will be offered at Sunday masses in St Mary's Parish, Rathkeale, and throughout the Diocese of Limerick.

A family fun day that was planned for today in the local area has been cancelled as a sign of respect for the tragedy that occurred. The organizers of the event expressed their sorrow on social media, stating that they were cancelling the fun day in the Abbey grounds due to the "very tragic circumstances" in Rathkeale. The driver of the car involved in the collision fled the scene, and a 30-year-old man was later arrested by gardaí on suspicion of driving under the influence.

He was taken to a garda station in Co Limerick for a blood/urine evidential sample, which is currently being analyzed. The road was closed temporarily while a technical examination of the scene was conducted by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Authorities are urging any witnesses, especially those who may have dash-cam footage from the Abbey Court, Rathkeale area between 3:20pm and 4pm yesterday, to come forward with any relevant information.

They can contact Newcastle West Garda Station at 069 20650, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any local garda station with their details.