Two children have been left without their parents a day after Christmas after a married couple were killed in a hit-and-run incident while crossing a road.

Anthony Hogg, 40, and his wife Georgina Hogg Moore, 39, died after they were knocked down close to the entrance of the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, in west Dublin, on St Stephen’s Day. A man has since been arrested.

Gardaí believe Anthony and Georgina had been out shopping in the St Stephen’s Day sales at the shopping centre and were on their way home when they were knocked down. The Irish Independent reports that their daughter was with them at the time.

The driver of the vehicle – an Audi A7 – failed to remain at the scene. Four pedestrians were also involved in the crash but no other injuries were reported.

A suspect in the incident was arrested after he presented at Blanchardstown Garda Station a few hours after the crash and is co-operating with their inquiries. Gardaí were satisfied last night the crash was an accident and the couple was not targeted specifically.

The couple’s deaths have sent shockwaves through the Dublin community where they lived and worked, with friends and colleagues all taking time to remember them.

A vigil was organised by the couple’s friend and neighbour, Nicole Seodin and held at 5.45pm on Friday, at the scene near Whitestown where the tragic accident happened.

She said: ‘Anybody who knew them knows they were beautiful hard working genuine people. All welcome to join us. Please share around. Our beautiful friends may they both rest in peace. The community is devastated. Please pray for their beautiful children and family.’

People left floral tributes at the scene of the collision, and 24 hours after the crash, a group of more than 50 people – some holding balloons – held a vigil.

Fianna Fáil councillor John-Kingley Onwumereh said the community is rocked by the ‘heartbreaking’ news of the couple’s death. ‘We’ve had three fatalities on the roads in Dublin 15 over the Christmas week,’ he said. ‘It is shocking. It is a tragedy and my heart goes out to all the families involved. I am glad to hear that gardaí are investigating this latest incident and there is a man they are talking to already.

'As a local councillor, I have to say that I am absolutely devastated, and it’s absolutely taken a lot away from the festivities of Christmas, especially happening on St Stephen’s Day.’

One friend of the couple’s wrote online: ‘This is so wrong Georgina Hogg Moore, you were such a lovely girl always had a laugh with ya may you and your husband Anto, get the best bed together in heaven. Thinking of your kids and all your family at this heartbreaking time.’

Georgina's sister has also paid tribute, promising to mind their children.

Anyone with information call 01 666 7000, or the Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or ring any Garda station.