WATCH: Loreto principal speaks of 'sorrow, pain and grief' in wake of Nicole Murphy's death

The principal of a school attended by Clonmel crash victim, Nicole Murphy (18), has described her as "a beautiful student, highly regarded by staff and students alike". 

Anne McGrath, the principal of Loreto Secondary School in Clonmel, spoke in the wake of the tragic collision which resulted in the deaths of four young people including Zoey Coffey (18), Grace McSweeney (18) and Luke McSweeney (24).  

She addressed the media earlier today alongside the principal of Presentation Secondary School, which Zoey and Grace attended. 

All three girls were celebrating their Leaving Certificate results when the crash occurred on Mountain Road at approximately 7.30pm yesterday (August 25). 

Speaking to the media, Principal McGrath said, "Today our Loreto school community and the town of Clonmel are coming to terms with the shocking news of the tragedy in Clonmel. We are mourning the loss of our Leaving Certificate student Nicole Murphy who lost her life in yesterday’s tragic accident.

"We also remember two students Zoey Coffey and Grace McSweeney from our neighbouring school Presentation and Grace’s brother, Luke McSweeney. Nicole achieved excellent Leaving Certificate results yesterday and was looking forward with excitement to starting the next phase of her life.

"Yesterday’s celebrations are now replaced by unbearable grief and a sense of great loss for our local community. No words can express our sorrow, pain and grief."

She continued: "Nicole was a beautiful student, highly regarded by staff and students alike. During her time in Loreto, she developed into a young woman who was kind, gentle and witty and she was a trusted and loyal friend. The staff, students and members of the Board of Management of Loreto Secondary School, Clonmel are devastated by this terrible news.

"We want to express our sincere sympathy to the Murphy, Coffey/Fraher and McSweeney families. In particular we are thinking of Nicole’s parents Serena and Declan, her older sister (our past pupil) Zoe, her brother Ryan, her extended family and her close friends. We are keeping them all in our thoughts and prayers. 

"We are also thinking of Presentation Secondary School and the CBS High School communities who have also been deeply affected by this tragedy. Our school is receiving support from psychologists in NEPS today to help us to manage our response to the needs of our school community.

"The school is open to our students and their families for our support and guidance. As we come together in school today, we aim to support and comfort each other. Members of our Student Support Team are available. 

"If needed, please get in touch with us via the school office by email to reception@loretoclonmel.ie or phoning 052 6121402."