'A young man of great character' - Tributes paid to talented GAA player who died in Cork crash

"A young man of great character and presence who was a credit to his family and our club. Our condolences go to his parents John and Caroline, siblings Jordan, Kelly and Ollie, girlfriend Chloe, extended family members, friends and all those in the Shanballymore community. Our focus remains on remembering Billy as a player, friend, and clubmate and supporting his family over this most difficult time in their lives. As a mark of respect to the O'Grady and Butler families, all activities in Shanballymore GAA grounds are paused and the walkway will remain closed until further notice."

"Billy was more than just a player, he was a friend and a vital part of our club family. We will truly miss his presence and his dedication. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time."

William 'Billy' O'Grady, in his early 20s, died from injuries sustained in a single-vehicle collision on the M8 Dublin-Cork motorway southbound near Junction 18, Upper Riverstown. The collision occurred at around 6.50am and O'Grady was pronounced dead at Cork University Hospital after doctors were unable to stabilise him. Shanballymore GAA and St Dominic's GAA issued tributes describing him as a player, friend, and valuable club member. Shanballymore paused all activities at club grounds and closed the walkway as a mark of respect. Condolences were extended to his parents John and Caroline, siblings Jordan, Kelly and Ollie, girlfriend Chloe, and the wider community.

Read at Irish Independent