Man critical following fall while preparing for his mothers funeral

A MAN in his 40s is critically ill in Dublin's Beaumont Hospital today (Tuesday) after failling from a ladder while erecting exterior lights at his mother's home in advance of her funeral.

Pat Bowens, Pollanalty, Cloonfad, near the Roscommon/Mayo border, fell off a ladder and struck his head on Monday afternoon at his mother, Mary's, home not long after hearing of her unexpected death at St. Vincent's Hospital, Dublin.

Mr. Bowens, a married father of two, was airlifted immediately to Beaumont Hospital.

The local community in the Cloonfad area is shocked by the double misfortune and are rallying in support of the injured man's wife, Elaine, and their two young children.

One neighbour explained: “Pat went to his mother's house after getting the shock news of her death. It appears he was putting up lights so that her house would be well lit up for those calling to sympathise with her family.

“Unfortunately, he fell off the ladder and sustained severe head injuries.'

Local priest Fr. Joe Feeney said the thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with the Bowens family, relatives and their neighbours at this difficult time.

Mrs. Bowens' remains will repose on Wednesday at Keane's Funeral Home, Cloonfad, prior to removal to the local church.

Her funeral will take place on Thursday to the local cemetery following Mass at noon.