'We never got to say goodbye' - Tributes paid after young man tragically found dead on Galway road

Heartbreaking tributes flooded in for a young man from Wicklow after his body was discovered on a busy Galway road.

Eric Byrne, who was originally from Monastery Grove in Enniskerry, was discovered on the Headford Road area of Galway on Saturday, September 14. He was in his aged in his 20s.

Gardaí told reporters that they are currently investigating 'all circumstances' as they await the results of a post mortem examination.

Eric was remembered by friends as "always having a heart of gold and would stop and chat all day".

Eric is remembered with love by his heartbroken parents Karina and Steven, sister Rachel, sister-in-law Tanya and Bump, his three little sisters, Nanny Sarah Farrell.

He is also mourned by his extended family, neighbours and his wide circle of friends.

Dozens of tributes were left to the well-liked Wicklow native, with one condolence adding that "the most heartbreaking part of losing you is not having the chance to say goodbye".

"We never thought we’d have to let go of you so soon, far too early. We will miss the laughter and the happiness you brought into every moment we shared. You’ll always be in our thoughts, missed deeply every day.

"The love and memories we hold of you will carry on in our hearts forever. For now, this is goodbye, but I believe we’ll meet again someday. Rest easy, my friend".

A touching tribute from the staff at his former primary school St. Mary’s and St. Gerard’s N.S. described Eric as a "friendly and kind boy" with the "brightest smile".

They wrote: "Our heart felt condolences to Karina, Steven, Rachel and all the family on the sudden passing of Eric.

"We remember him as a wonderful, friendly and kind boy with the brightest smile. May he rest in peace."

Enniskerry locals have gathered this morning for Eric's funeral, and the young man will be laid to rest this afternoon in the family grave at Kilternan Cemetery Park in Dublin.