Tributes paid for five-year-old boy killed after being hit by car in Co. Laois

Tributes are pouring in for the five-year-old boy who tragically died after he was hit by a car in Co. Laois on Saturday.

Aaron Hussain was killed when he was hit by a car at around 4.20pm in the Kilminchy area of Portlaoise over the weekend. The young boy was transported from the scene to Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise in a serious condition, but was sadly pronounced dead a short time later.

The driver of the car, a woman, aged in her 40s, was not injured.

No funeral arrangements have been announced as of yet, an autopsy is due to be carried out.

Aaron was a junior infant student in the Educate Together school in Portlaoise town and was the son of Tauqir Hussain and Irina Novikova, who are said to be well known in the community. Aaron’s father Tauqir is involved in a barber’s shop in Lyster Square while his mother runs a local beauty business.

Taking to social media, Aaron’s mother Irina informed her clients of the “heartbreaking” loss as she cancels all appointments for the foreseeable future.

"With deep sorrow, we share the heartbreaking loss of our little son, Aaron. Due to this, all appointments are canceled until further notice. Thank you for your understanding. Rest in peace our little angel," she wrote.

The Laois Muslim Community shared a statement on social media for Aaron, Tauqir and Irina: "We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Aaron Hussain. May Allah (SWT) give patience and strength to his family during this difficult time.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to his loved ones, Father Tauqir Hussain & mother Irina Novikova. May Allah (SWT) shower him with mercy and grant his family peace and comfort."

Meanwhile, Gardai are continuing to appeal for witnesses to come forward.

In a statement, a Garda spokesperson said: "Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in Kilminchy, Portlaoise, Co. Laois between 4.00pm and 5.00pm this afternoon are asked to make this footage available to investigating gardaí.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Portlaoise Garda Station on 057 867 4100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station."