Heartbreak as Irish dad-of-7 dies in road accident in New York as tributes pour for ‘wonderfully talented’ GAA player

HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for an Irishman that died in a road accident in New York.

Christopher “Cricky” Roche, from Kells in Co Meath, sadly passed away at the age of 56 on Friday.

Mr Roche was a “hugely talented” footballer and hurler and a proud member of Gaeil Colmcille.

His wife Siobhan was also in the collision and remains in hospital in a “serious condition”.

The couple share seven children aged between 11 and 19.

Gaeil Colmcille GAA club, in Co Meath, launched a GoFundMe to support his wife and children during this “devastating time”.

The club said the family are facing an “unimaginable loss” and have a “very difficult road” ahead.

They said: “For those who knew Cricky, this is an opportunity to remember a wonderful footballer, hurler, teammate, friend and proud Gaeil.

“For those who did not know him, we hope you will help us support a family who have suffered an unimaginable loss.”

Another US-based fundraiser was launched to “help defray funeral and memorial costs, support Siobhan’s ongoing medical bills and extensive recovery, and assist with living expenses for the children’s immediate household, everyday, and longer-term needs”.

Mourners remembered the dad-of-seven as a “talented” sportsman and a “wonderful” friend.

Kells Celtic Youths said they were “deeply saddened” to hear of his tragic passing.

They said: “Cricky was a very talented soccer player who helped create memories that remain part of our clubs history to this day.

“He played a vital part when our club won the treble in 1992.”

WestPut Setanta Gaelic Football Club in New York added: “The entire club and community are thinking of our former players Laela and Sophia Roche and their family following the tragic loss of their dad and as their mum, Siobhan, fights for her recovery.”