Tributes paid to former Irish Lotto winner following tragic death in Turkey

Michael ‘Mouse’ Kelly who was in his early sixties from Ballaghanoher in Birr, died tragically in a road accident in Turkey.

Paying tribute, local Fianna Fáil councillor, Peter Ormand, said there has been a dark cloud over the town since the news broke.

He added: “Michael was very well liked in the town and was an avid Birr hurling supporter and a supporter of Offaly GAA. I want to extend my sincere sympathy to the family at this sad time.”

Mr Kelly and his wife Ann won the fourth biggest ever prize in the National Lotto at the time in 1997. They celebrated their £4,094,789 win with a £5,000 party in their hometown.

Speaking to the media at the time, the couple admitted they had some fears about winning such a large amount of money.

Ms Kelly added: “Hopefully we will all still be happy together.”

It is understood that he owns a villa in the country, and was there with his wife Ann, and their daughter.

Locals in the town of Birr were comforting Mr Kelly’s wife Ann and five children. No funeral arrangements have been made as yet.

A spokesperson for the Department of Affairs confirmed the death, saying: “The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.

“As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of any specific case.”