The incident occurred on Friday afternoon in Kilmeedy. The victim has been named locally as Elizabeth Lynch.
After the collapse efforts were made to remove Elizabeth immediately however she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The mother of three was assisting with the construction of a house at the time of the collapse.
A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) confirmed that the organisation is aware of the incident and has begun an investigation.
Local councillor Adam Teskey described the incident as a devastating blow for the community.
“It is an awful shock to people here in the locality, the area is in immense mourning,” he said.
“It’s taking a devastating toll on the community and our sympathies are with the family at this time,” he added.
Elizabeth Lynch was well known locally for her involvement in coaching young girls in sport and was a member of Monagea Ladies Gaelic Football Club.
Both Monagea Ladies Gaelic Football Club and Newcastle West Town FC have suspended their activities this weekend as a mark of respect.
