A COMMUNITY in Wicklow is grieving after an Irish father-of-two died following a single car crash in Calgary, Canada.
Sean 'Slinger' Maher, 39, was travelling northwest of the city on Stoney Trail southbound yesterday, February 19 when the incident happened.
According to Calgary Police, the vehicle veered left onto the hard shoulder, rode up onto the cable barrier and crashed into the concrete base of the support pillar for the overpass.
Sean is survived by his fiancée Leanne and young sons Ralph and Harry in Canada and his mother Bridie, brothers Brian and Colm and sister Sandra in Ireland.Mr Maher was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Calgary Police Service Traffic Section is investigating the collision and have said that speed is considered to be a factor in the crash.
Annacurra GAA, Mr Maher's local GAA club at home paid tribute to Wicklow native.
"We remember today a wonderful Annacurra GAA man who passed away in Canada yesterday.
"Sean 'Slinger' Maher, partner, father, son, brother, friend, gentleman, footballer. Farewell Sean.
"Thoughts and sincerest sympathies are with his family, friends and community.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a ainm."
Alan Nolan, PRO pf the GAA club and friend of Mr Maher, told The Irish Post that Sean was "a true gentleman."
"Sean was a true gentleman, and the biggest softy at heart you would ever meet.
"He would give you the shirt off your back without even asking.
"He was the best man to score from the sideline and miss it from the 14 in front of the goal.
"A true friend and will be sadly missed."
Mr Maher had been in Canada for three years and is survived by his fiancée Leanne and young sons Ralph and Harry in Canada and his mother Bridie, brothers Brian and Colm and sister Sandra in Ireland.
The Department of Foreign Affairs have said they have not received any requests for consular assistance, but they stand ready to provide assistance if requested.
