Dundalk crash: Vigils held for five young people who died

Dundalk crash: Vigils held for five young people who died

Over the weekend, a tragic road collision in County Louth, Ireland, claimed the lives of five young individuals. The victims included Chloe McGee, 23, and Shay Duffy, 21, both from Carrickmacross in County Monaghan; Alan McCluskey, 23, from Drumconrath in County Meath; Dylan Commins, 23, from Ardee in County Louth; and Chloe Hipson, 21, who was from Lanarkshire, Scotland. The fatal crash, involving two vehicles, took place near Dundalk on the Ardee Road at Gibstown on Saturday night.

In response to the loss, several vigils were organized across the region on Tuesday evening, held at Gaelic football grounds in counties Louth, Meath, and Monaghan. Hundreds of people gathered to offer prayers and pay their respects to those who had lost their lives. These solemn events created a space for communities to come together in remembrance and support for the bereaved families.

At Drumconrath GFC, where Alan McCluskey was from, several hundred people assembled to honour the victims, especially Alan, who had played as an underage footballer for the club. The club’s flag was lowered to half-mast as a mark of mourning. Alan, part of a local farming family, was remembered as a hardworking individual and a loyal friend. Attendees received candles upon arrival, and a book of condolence was opened. The vigil included prayers, music, and a decade of the rosary, underscoring the profound sorrow felt by all present.

Paul Carey, chairman of Drumconrath GFC, emphasized the need for the vigil as a symbol of unity, providing a gathering place where the community could show solidarity with the grieving families. He remarked on the incomprehensible nature of the tragedy, stating, “It’s unimaginable what the families are going through,” and highlighting the deep shock affecting the small village. Carey also noted that the whole community knew Alan and the McCluskey family well, which made the loss even more poignant.

Meanwhile, investigations into the crash continue. Gardaí confirmed that post-mortem examinations have been completed and the victims’ remains have been returned to their families. Three others involved in the crash suffered injuries that were not life-threatening and are receiving medical care. Following the collision, Gardaí have renewed appeals for anyone with information to come forward as inquiries proceed. Books of condolence have also been made available to the public in various civic offices in County Louth.

In the days following the tragedy, heartfelt tributes have been shared by friends, community members, and national figures, including Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who have expressed their sympathy for the families affected by this devastating event

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More