The mum-of-three was tragically killed after a trench that was being dug for the preparation of a septic tank collapsed in on top of her on Friday
Heartbreaking tributes have been paid to a mum-of-three from who died after a septic tank trench collapsed in on top of her.
Elizabeth “Liz” Lynch, aged in her 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene in Kilmeedy, near Newcastle West on Friday. It is understood Ms Lynch was assisting with the construction of a house at the time.
The incident has been referred to the Republic’s Health and Safety Authority, which will lead the workplace accident investigation.
A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí attended the scene of a fatal workplace incident at a premises in Kilmeedy, Co Limerick on Friday, 18th September 2026.
“A woman aged in her 40s was pronounced deceased at the scene. This matter has been referred to the HSA for further investigation.”
The HSA has confirmed than an investigation has been launched into the incident.
An HSA spokesperson said: “The Health and Safety Authority is aware of the fatal incident and has launched an investigation. As such, no further information is available.”
This is the second tragedy the Lynch family has suffered in recent months as Ms Lynch’s brother Timothy was tragically killed in November while working to build his forever home for himself and his partner, Catriona.
Ms Lynch’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community, with friends and neighbours paying tribute to the popular figure.
The mum-of-three was involved in coaching young girls with local football club Newcastle West Town FC, who said her “presence and dedication within the Club will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her”.
“We are shocked and saddened on the sudden passing of our Coach Liz Lynch,” the club said in a statement.
“Liz started coaching with us back in 2020, coached numerous age groups and was influential in developing our female age groups in particular.
“Upto last season, Liz coached the U16’s and U19 girl’s teams.
“Liz’s beautiful, kind and vibrant personality always shone through where ever she was based in the Club, be it training, a match or volunteering.
“Our deepest heartfelt sympathy goes out to her 3 beloved sons, Kauan, Jaycob, Victor, Parents Tim and Betty, sister Mary, Brother Michael Senior and all her family and friends at this immensely sad time.
“Liz’s presence and dedication within the Club will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her.
“Rest in heavenly peace Liz.”
Newcastle West Town FC postponed a number of games due to take place on Saturday following the tragic incident.
Ms Lynch was also a gifted athlete who played soccer for Feenagh AFC, who paid a touching tribute to the Limerick native.
“All in Feenagh AFC were shocked and saddened when news of the tragic death of Liz Lynch emerged on Friday,” the club said in a shared shared on their social media pages.
“Liz was a popular and friendly member of our women’s squad, having many close friends on the panel.
“When Feenagh entered the newly formed Limerick Desmond Ladies League in 2004 Liz was involved and she returned to the club a couple of seasons ago after a few years playing with Newcastle West Town.
“She was also involved in coaching underage sides in Newcastle and was set to don the number 1 jersey again for Feenagh this season until tragedy struck.
“As a club we send our heartfelt thoughts, prayers and sympathies to Liz’s children Kauan, Jaycob and Victor, her entire family, friends and teammates at this most difficult time.
“RIP Liz.”
A keen gaelic football fan, Ms Lynch also lined out for Feohanagh Castlemahon LGFC alongside her sister Mary, with the two family members helping the club’s Intermediate team win their first Intermediate County Final title in 2015.
Paying tribute to their beloved friend and teammate, the club said: “Our club is devastated to hear of our former player, Liz Lynch’s sudden passing.
“Liz and her sister Mary, played for our Intermediate team that won our first Intermediate County Final title in 2015, progressing onto a Munster quarter and semi final. Liz’s extensive experience as a goalie was instrumental to the team’s success.
“They also took part in the LIDL TV ad filmed in Wicklow in 2016, a great bonding weekend for the team and coaches, lots of fun and cherished memories made together.
“Liz was a cool and calm anchor in goals, a genuine, good, kind, friendly person with a great sense of humour. Our club is extremely proud of her contribution and lucky to have had her play over those years.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all Liz’s family. Her sister Mary and her sons Kauan, Jaycob and Victor, who were at every training and match, always by her side. To her dear friends and team mates in several clubs she played with and helped coach, we are with you all in grief.
“Rest easy Liz our friend, you left such a positive, beautiful impression on us all, thank you.”
A hospital fundraiser due to take place this Sunday has been cancelled as a mark of respect to Ms Lynch.
The organisers continued: “This decision wasn’t taken lightly, but at a time like this, we feel it is only right to stand with our neighbours. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with all of the families affected, and we want to give them the space, love and privacy they need as they face the most difficult of circumstances.
“Our little parish has endured more heartbreak than any community should ever have to face over the past 12–18 months. Tonight, once again, there are families facing unimaginable pain, and our hearts are with every single one of them.”
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