An Irish community have been left devastated after the tragic death of a three-year-old boy at his home on Friday.
Pádraig Denis Cunningham was fatally injured when he was struck by a vehicle at Ballyduhig, West Limerick, at around 10.30am.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, and the young boy was taken to University Hospital Limerick.
READ MORE: Gardai treating death of boy, 3, at his home as tragic accident
He later passed away as a result of his injuries.
Funeral mass of the Angels will take place in St. Ita's Church, Raheenagh, on Monday at 12.30pm, followed by burial afterwards in Killeedy Cemetery.
A funeral notice reads: "Kilcoora South, Broadford, Co. Limerick, on July 22, 2022 following a tragic accident, aged 3 years. Cherished and adored son of heartbroken parents Robert and Denise née McAuliffe (Newmarket), much loved brother of Áine, Maebh and Clodagh, treasured grandson of Patsy and Margaret and the late Denis and Anne McAuliffe.
"Very sadly missed by his parents, sisters, grandparents, aunts Aedín, Marion and the late Patricia, uncles-in-law Jerry and Pat, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends."
Local non-party councillor Jerome Scanlan, a family friend, said the local community would do its best to support the boy's heartbroken parents, Robert Cunningham and Denise Cunningham, a former national school teacher.
The farming family were being comforted by relatives and friends as they tried to come to terms with their young son's sudden and tragic death.
"We're all trying to come to terms with the tragic news in Ballyduhig today. It's just dreadful, a frightening thing to happen," said Mr Scanlan.
"My heart goes out to the family, and it is just unbelievable that something like this could happen to a three and half year old child. It's just a dreadful scenario, it's dreadful for his mother and his father and his three sisters, that are aged a few years older than him. The eldest is 12."
Tributes have poured in for the young child, who was described as a "precious little boy".
Offering their sympathies to the family, one person wrote: "Our deepest condolences to all of the Cunningham and McAuliffe families at this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rest in peace Padraig".
A second said: "Sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to you all on the sad loss of your precious little boy Pádraig Denis. May the Lord comfort you all".
"Utterly heartbroken for the family of this little boy I hope you find comfort in knowing you have a beautiful angel who will watch over you and mind you all now", commented a third.
While a fourth said: "Heartbroken for you all on the loss of your precious little boy...my thoughts and prayers are with you all."
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