Tributes paid to US tourist killed in crash during 'long-awaited' trip to Ireland

Extra.ie​

6 hours ago

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to an American mum-of-two who tragically lost her life during what was described as a 'long-awaited, special trip to Ireland to explore her heritage.'
Allison Eichner, from Connecticut, died after being struck by a vehicle in the Causeway Road area of Bushmills, Co Antrim, at around 12.30pm on Wednesday. The incident has left her family, friends, and local community devastated.
Ms Eichner, who was in her 40s, had travelled to Ireland as part of a personal journey to connect with her Irish roots. A fundraising campaign set up in her memory by close friends has already raised more than $58,500 (€50,000) to support her husband Dan and their two sons, Sean and Joey.
A message shared on the GoFundMe page reads:
'With heavy hearts, we share the sudden and heartbreaking loss of our dear friend, Allison Eichner. Allison Eichner. Pic: GoFundMe
'Allison was truly a beautiful person, inside and out, with a kindness and generosity that radiated through everything she did. She had a gift for making everyone around her feel seen, loved, and truly cared for.
'Allison was a devoted wife to Dan and an amazing mom to their two beautiful boys, Sean and Joey. Her love for her family was limitless, and her greatest joy was being their rock, their safe place, and their biggest cheerleader.
'To those who knew her well, Allison's quiet sense of humor often caught you off guard — sweet on the surface, with an unexpectedly sharp and hilarious wit, and a wonderfully dirty sense of humor that always made you laugh when you least expected it. She was the person who gave endlessly, never asking for anything in return. Whether it was her time, her love, or just a listening ear over a cup of tea (with gluten-free chocolate chip cookies, of course), Allison was always there.
'Just days ago, Allison was on a long-awaited, special trip to Ireland to explore her heritage. What was meant to be a time of joy and exploration ended far too soon in an unimaginable tragedy.'
Maggie Essex, one of the organisers of the fundraiser, said the funds would help cover funeral costs and immediate needs for the family during this incredibly difficult time.
'As we process this devastating loss, many have asked how they can help,' she wrote. 'If you can give, thank you. If you can share, thank you. Most of all, please keep Allison's family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your love and support.'
To donate, click the link here.