'Heartbreak': Tributes paid to ‘lovely young’ Longford man the first person to die on Irish roads in 2026

Tributes have been paid to a father of five who was tragically killed in a road traffic collision in Edgeworthstown on Saturday evening.

Longford man Francis ‘Franco’ Kelly, of Tromra Road in Granard and aged in his mid-30’s, died following a road traffic accident involving two cars and a van. He was the first person to die on Irish roads in 2026. 

The crash occurred at approximately 7pm on Saturday evening just after the Edgeworthstown roundabout on the Longford town side of the N4. 

A second man in his 30s, who was also involved in the crash, was taken to hospital by ambulance where he was treated for injuries described as “serious but non-life threatening.” The injured man still remains in hospital. 

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As news of Mr Kelly’s shock passing emerged, social media was flooded with tributes and sympathies in honour of the popular young man, affectionately known as ‘Franco’ to his friends. 

Those who knew Mr Kelly described him as “a lovely young man”, and “a gentleman.”

One friend wrote, “Rest in peace Francie. We had some good laughs with Granard Celtic back in the day. God rest ya lad.”

Another Facebook user expressed their shock at the news, recalling how they had only been speaking with him on New Year's Eve three nights earlier, adding that he had been in great form on the night, "chatting and laughing."

Sharing their condolences, another friend wrote, “RIP Francie, so sad. Look down on poor Stephanie and your beautiful kids and family. God love them, absolutely so sad. Such a lovely lad RIP.”

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A heartbroken friend said, “I really don't have the words. RIP Francie xxx”, while another added, “Francie you were a gentleman.”

Mr Kelly will be sadly missed by his loving parents Bernie and Francie, brother Thomas, sister Catriona, partner Stephanie, daughters Paige, Talita and Rosaleen, sons Francie Jr and Tommy Lee, grandfather Tom, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. He is predeceased by his sister Rosaleen and brother Patrick (Pa). 

Mr Kelly will repose at 14 Tromra Road, Granard on Wednesday, January 7 from 2pm to 4pm, followed by removal to St Mary's Church, Granard, arriving at 6pm.

Funeral Mass takes place in St Mary’s Church on Thursday, January 8 at 12 noon, followed by burial in Granardkille Cemetery.

Longford Gardaí have made a public appeal for any witnesses to the incident to come forward. 

Motorists who were travelling in the Edgeworthstown area between 6:30pm and 7:15pm on Saturday January 3, and particularly anyone who may have dash cam footage, are asked to contact Longford Garda Station on 043 33 50570.