Drogheda (Louth): A devastating road accident in Dundalk, Co. Louth, has claimed the lives of five young friends, leaving three others injured. The incident occurred at approximately 9 p.m. on Saturday night on the Ardee Road in Gibbstown, when a Volkswagen Golf collided with a Toyota Land Cruiser.
The victims have been named as:
- Chloe McGee (23), Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan
- Alan McCluskey (23), Drumconrath, Co. Meath
- Dylan Cummins (23), Ardee, Co. Louth
- Shay Duffy (21), Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan
- Chloe Hipson (21), Lanarkshire, Scotland
A 20-year-old passenger in the Golf survived with minor injuries and was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. All five deceased were close friends and were travelling to Dundalk for a weekend social outing.
The two occupants of the Toyota Land Cruiser were also treated at the same hospital. Their injuries are not believed to be serious.
The fatal crash occurred on the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, further highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety. This tragedy brings the number of road deaths in Ireland this year to 157, already exceeding last year’s total.
Forensic Investigation Underway
Both vehicles were removed from the scene following detailed examinations led by State Pathologist Dr. Linda Mulligan. Post-mortems on the five victims will be carried out at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.
Garda Forensic Collision Investigators and the Divisional Scenes of Crime Unit conducted extensive examinations at the site. The area remained closed until late last night, with forensic teams returning today to continue collecting evidence.
An incident room has been established at Dundalk Garda Station, and a senior officer is leading the investigation.
Garda Appeal
Gardaí are appealing to any witnesses, particularly those with dashcam footage, who were travelling on Ardee Road between 8.30 p.m. and 9.15 p.m. to come forward.
The emergency response included Dundalk Fire Brigade, HSE paramedics, and hospital staff from Drogheda. The local coroner has been notified.
Garda Superintendent Liam Geraghty described the tragedy as a stark reminder that road conditions can change in an instant and urged motorists to exercise maximum caution at all times.
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