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'Terrible tragedy': Rugby league rocked by death of 23-year-old star

Liam Walsh, pictured here in action for Widnes Vikings.
Liam Walsh has died at the age of 23. Images: Twitter

The rugby league community is mourning the tragic death of former Super League player Liam Walsh.

The 23-year-old was fatally struck by a car while walking in Widnes this week.

Walsh was transferred to hospital but later died from his injuries.

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The Widnes Vikings, who Walsh represented in the Super League, announced the shocking news.

“I am devastated to hear the news of Liam's passing this morning," Widnes CEO Phil Finney said.

“Liam was a very special person and a very important part of our club for a number of years.

“He made a lasting impression on everyone he met with his sense of humour and contagious personality.

“He was a one-off and will be remembered with great fondness by all at the club who had the pleasure of knowing him.

“We are all thinking about his family and friends at this really sad time.”

Rugby league world rocked by terrible tragedy

Mike Smith, vice-president of the Rugby Football League, said: “This is a terrible tragedy and our hearts go out to Liam's family and friends.

“From what I hear of Liam, it is clear that he was a very popular young man of whom his family can be extremely proud.

“He'll be greatly missed and we will offer the club and the family whatever support we can.”

Walsh made his Super League debut for Widnes in 2017, playing six games across a two-year period.

His former club wore black armbands and held a minute's silence for Walsh before their game against Swinton Lions.

Players also laid out a jersey with Walsh's name and the number 23.

A spokesperson for Cheshire Police said they are still appealing for witnesses and video footage following the fatal crash.

No arrests have been made but police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

Tributes have been flowing in for Walsh on social media.

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