A 23-year-old woman hailing from Carne, St Awaries in Wexford, tragically lost her life in a catastrophic three-vehicle pile-up involving a lorry, a car, and a van on Tuesday, around 6.30 am. The accident happened on the N25 at Barntown, Co Wexford, as Kate Wibbe was commuting to Cork for work.
Identified at the scene, Kate’s remains were shifted to University Hospital Waterford for an autopsy. Kate had a budding career as a regulatory affairs assistant analyst at the Cork branch of PepsiCo, set in Little Island. She had recently earned a promotion, having committed more than a year to the company.
Her colleagues reminisce her as a uniquely exceptional companion, displaying wisdom way beyond her age and bringing a cheerful presence to her environment. Kate finished her Bachelor of Law from UCC (University College Cork) the previous year. During her years at UCC, she had multiple roles including a radio presenter at UCC 98.3FM, a footballer with the UCC women’s squad, and also the public relations officer for her team.
Upon hearing of her untimely death, the UCC women’s football team expressed their utter shock and profound sorrow. Commending Kate as both a phenomenal player and a dedicated committee member, they extended their heartfelt sympathy to her kin, mates, and team members.
Kate Wibbe also held membership in the Bishopstown GAA’s LGFA junior team, based out in Cork. The news of her sudden tragic passing was met with disbelief and profound grief within the team. She was considered an invaluable part of the team. Her passing in the road mishap on Tuesday has taken everyone by surprise and induced a state of deep sorrow.
Kate became a cherished member of our club this annum, integrating without a hitch into the group, carrying the Bishopstown GAA banner high. Weare heartbroken over Kate’s untimely death and extend our deepest sympathies to her family. It’s indeed sorrowful that such a young lady was snatched away in her prime. We hope Kate finds tranquillity in her eternal rest.
A memorial service in honour of Ms Wibbe is scheduled to take place this Saturday, followed by interment at Our Lady’s Island burial ground.
Ms Wibbe is survived by her parents, Fiona and Christian, along with her sibling Daniel, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and a multitude of friends.
Concurrently, the public who may have witnessed the regrettable incident are implored to get in touch with the police force. The male driver, who was in his forties, was taken to Wexford General Hospital, thankfully his injuries are not life-threatening. The accident spot has been maintained intact for further inspection.
Road users who may have captured the incident on camera, including dashboard cams, and happened to be in the vicinity when the incident took place, are urged to present this footage to the investigative police.
Individuals possessing any information pertinent to the incident can contact the Wexford Police station on 053 916 5200, or the Confidential Police line on 1800 666 111, or any local police station.