Dundalk, Co Louth — November 16, 2025:
Irish authorities have named the five young people who tragically died in a two-vehicle crash near Dundalk on Saturday night. The victims—aged between 21 and 23—were travelling together when their car collided with another vehicle on the L3168 at Gibstown.
What Happened
The fatal collision occurred just after 9pm on Saturday on the L3168, a rural road near Dundalk in Co Louth. Gardaí say the incident involved a Volkswagen Golf carrying six people and a Toyota Land Cruiser with two occupants.
Five of the six young people in the Volkswagen Golf died at the scene. A sixth passenger, also in his 20s, survived with non-life-threatening injuries and remains in hospital.
Two individuals in the Toyota Land Cruiser—a man and a woman—were taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for treatment. Their injuries are also described as non-life-threatening.
Authorities have launched a full investigation and are appealing for information, particularly from anyone travelling the L3168 between 8:30pm and 9:15pm who may have dashcam footage.
Who Were the Victims?
Gardaí confirmed the identities of the five young adults who lost their lives:
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Chloe McGee, 23, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan
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Shay Duffy, 21, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan
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Alan McCluskey, 23, Drumconrath, Co Meath
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Dylan Commins, 23, Ardee, Co Louth
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Chloe Hipson, 21, Lanarkshire, Scotland
The group was travelling together to Dundalk for a night out—a plan that ended in one of the most devastating road tragedies in recent years. Garda Superintendent Charlie Armstrong confirmed that family liaison officers have been assigned to each grieving family.
Case Details and Ongoing Investigation
Superintendent Armstrong described the crash scene as “very difficult,” citing adverse weather conditions and the challenging nature of the recovery operation. Emergency teams—including Dundalk Fire Brigade, HSE paramedics, and hospital staff—responded swiftly and worked through the night.
A technical and forensic examination of the crash site is underway. Post-mortem examinations for the deceased will be conducted in the coming days as part of the investigation.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information or footage from the L3168 on Saturday evening to contact Dundalk Garda Station at 042 9388400, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief across Ireland and Scotland. Social media timelines have filled with tributes, condolences, and messages using hashtags such as #DundalkCrash, #CoLouthTragedy, and #InMemory.
Friends and community members have shared memories of the young adults, describing them as kind, vibrant, and deeply loved. Candlelight vigils are being planned in Carrickmacross, Ardee, and Drumconrath as local communities struggle to process the overwhelming loss.
Irish citizens online expressed collective heartbreak, with many calling for increased road safety awareness and support for grieving families.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
Ireland’s leaders, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin, expressed deep sorrow.
He said he was “numbed and shocked” at the loss of “five young lives,” extending thoughts and prayers to the families and the injured.
Tánaiste Simon Harris added that “a veil of deep sadness” had fallen over the country and praised first responders for their professionalism during such traumatic circumstances.
Superintendent Liam Geraghty noted the heartbreaking timing of the tragedy, occurring on the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, calling it a stark reminder of how drastically life can change in a split second.
Irish President Catherine Connolly also issued a statement saying she was “deeply saddened and shocked,” offering condolences to the families and gratitude to emergency personnel.
The investigation remains active, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
