A student has died in a collision with a truck while riding his bike.
Johnny Santos had only been in Ireland for three weeks when tragedy struck.
His travelling companion posted a heartbreaking message after the police arrived at their accommodation with the tragic news.
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The 20-year-old, who came from São Vicente near São Paulo, Brazil, was riding his bicycle through the city centre when he collided with the truck.
The accident took place at the intersection of O’Connell Street and Middle Abbey Street at around 1pm yesterday (1 Apr).
Reports initially said the victim was riding an e-scooter, but the police later confirmed it was a bicycle.
A spokesperson said: “Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision at the junction of Middle Abbey Street and O’Connell Street.
“Shortly before 1pm, Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the incident involving a truck and a cyclist.
“The male cyclist, aged in his 20s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“The local coroner has been notified, and arrangements will be made for a post-mortem examination.
“No other injuries were reported.”
Lord Mayor of Dublin Ray McAdam said: “While I am awaiting official confirmation of the circumstances, this appears to have been a very serious accident in the heart of our city.
“My thoughts are with all those involved and with the emergency services at the scene.
“We must continue to do all we can to improve road safety across Dublin.
“Our city belongs to everyone, and we all need to look out for one another.”
Johnny had been in Ireland for around 20 days prior to his death, as reported by Need To Know.
His family have been informed and is currently organising the transfer of his body back to Brazil.
His father, Jefferson Souza, paid tribute to him on social media with a series of photos.
Johnny’s friend Kaique Santos, who was with him in Ireland, said: “When I left home this morning and you went to get bread complaining because you were going to make lunch, I kept teasing you, and we ended up laughing.
“I could never have imagined that, when I got home, I would find the police with this news.”
The investigation into the circumstances leading up to the accident is ongoing.
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