President Connolly Leads Tributes as Five Young Lives Lost in Crash

UPDATE: A devastating road crash just outside Dundalk, Co Louth on November 15, 2025, has claimed the lives of five young people, all under the age of 25. President Catherine Connolly has expressed her deep sorrow, stating, “I am deeply saddened and shocked by the loss of five precious young lives.”

The tragic incident occurred around 9:00 PM when a Volkswagen Golf carrying six young individuals collided with a Toyota Land Cruiser on the L3168 road. The five victims, who had been heading to Dundalk for a night out, tragically did not survive. One survivor, a male from the Ardee area, is currently in the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Emergency services, including Gardaí and the Dundalk Fire Brigade, responded swiftly to the scene, which was described as chaotic and tragic. Superintendent Charlie Armstrong confirmed, “Five occupants of the Volkswagen Golf, three males and two females, are deceased at the scene.” The two individuals in the Land Cruiser were also hospitalized but fortunately did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

Witnesses reported that the Volkswagen Golf burst into flames immediately after the collision, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding this horrific event. Authorities have launched a major investigation and are appealing for witnesses to come forward, especially anyone who may have been on the L3168 between 8:30 PM and 9:15 PM that evening.

Superintendent Armstrong emphasized the emotional toll this tragedy will have on the victims’ families and local communities, stating, “This shocking, devastating event will have a deep impact on families and communities in Carrickmacross, Dromconrath, and beyond.”

Local and national leaders have joined President Connolly in mourning the victims. Taoiseach Micheal Martin expressed his shock, saying, “I am numbed and shocked at the horrific road crash that has led to the loss of five young lives.” Tanaiste Simon Harris added, “A veil of deep sadness and shock has come over our country.”

The incident also serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of road traffic, coinciding with the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. As of now, 157 people have lost their lives on Irish roads in 2025, highlighting the urgent need for road safety awareness.

Gardaí are asking anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area to contact Dundalk Garda Station at 042 938 8400 or the Garda confidential line at 1800 666 111. The investigation into this tragic event is ongoing, and authorities are determined to uncover the full details surrounding this heartbreaking incident.

This tragedy has not only impacted the families of the victims but has also touched the hearts of the entire community. As the nation mourns, support efforts are being organized to help those affected by this unimaginable loss.