Tributes to popular Irish teenager killed in tragic workplace accident

Tributes have been paid to a popular teenager who died in a tragic workplace accident in Co Cavan.

Reece Donohoe, who turned 17 in February, lost his life at an incident at the Wilton recycling plant near Ballyjamesduff on Thursday afternoon.

Reece, who was from nearby Kilnaleck, had only recently started a part time position at the plant, locals said. The plant was closed yesterday as a mark of respect for Reece.

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The company said in a statement yesterday: "The company offers their deepest condolences to the employee's family at this very sad time."

"As a mark of respect, the company has decided to close the gates until further notice."

Gardai and emergency services were called to the scene at around 4.30pm.

The Health and Safety Authority is now investigating the accident and gardai will be preparing a file for the coroner.

Local Fine Gael councillor Trevor Smith said the community was devastated by Reece's death.

"There is a dark cloud over Kilnaleck."

"The community is devastated for the parents and the siblings and the whole family."

Reece's uncle Niall Donohoe said on Facebook: "You meant the world to me Reece you were my everything my heart is broken. Rest in peace gentle nephew."

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