Community mourns young teacher and GAA footballer who died in Sligo crash

Heartbreaking news.

Tributes have poured in for a gifted footballer and teacher who tragically died yesterday following a road crash.

James McNeive, from Knock in Mayo, was killed in the accident which happened yesterday morning, shortly before 6am, on the N15.

The crash involved a van and a lorry.

Mr McNeive, who was driving the van, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 28-year-old worked as a primary school teacher and was also a talented GAA player with Aghamore in Mayo.

Local Aontu Councillor, Paul Lawless, who knew McNeive personally, said: "We are in shock today at the death of James McNeive. He was a genuine young man, outgoing and the life and soul of his community and of his friends.

"I want to express my sincere sympathy to his mother Bernadette and his brothers Michael and Mathew and to the entire McNeive and Sweeney families at this very tough time."

Pupils of Mr McNeive also paid tribute describing him as 'the best teacher we ever had', adding that they 'loved playing football with him' and were 'so looking forward to seeing him in September'.

One parent wrote: "Mr McNeive taught my daughter in Glasnevin. He was a wonderful teacher, such an asset to the school.

"The kids adored him. My son had a wonderful last year in Glasnevin participating in the sports James organised. His name had come up in numerous conversations in the last few months with friends, as the kids were eagerly awaiting his return to the Glasnevin."

A garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward. They are also seeking road users with camera footage, including dashcam footage, who were travelling between Drumcliffe and Grange at the time of the collision to make it available to them.

"Anyone with information can contact Sligo garda station at 071 9157000, the garda confidential line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.”