Ireland: Four young people killed in road crash in Co Tipperary
Four young people have died in a road crash in Co Tipperary, Irish police have said.
The male driver, who was in his early 20s, and three female teenage passengers, were killed after the car they were in overturned while travelling downhill.
The crash happened close to the entrance of Hillview Sports Club in Mountain Road in the town of Clonmel on Friday evening.
The victims are all understood to be from the local area.
It is thought they had been on their way to celebrate after receiving the results of their Leaving Certificate exams.
'Devastating and heartbreaking'
In a statement, Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar said: "It is with deep sadness that I learned of the tragic incident in Clonmel last night.
"Leaving Cert results night should mark the beginning of a world of opportunities for young people. It's a milestone on the road from childhood to adulthood. For young lives, so full of possibility, to be cut short in this way is truly devastating and heartbreaking. The whole nation mourns them.
"My sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have died and the wider community in Clonmel and Tipperary. The thoughts of the whole country are with them, their school and their community.
"I am assured that the school authorities and (the health service) will work together to put in place the necessary supports for their classmates and community. We must come together in times such as this."
Mr Varadkar then said in Irish: "May their souls be at God's right hand."
Higher education minister Simon Harris TD said there was "grief, shock and sadness" after the "devastating" and "heartbreaking" incident.
On X, formerly known as Twitter, he wrote: "Leaving Cert results day represents achievement, celebration and excitement.
"Tonight that has been replaced by grief, shock and sadness... There are no words. Heartbreaking."
And local priest Father Toomey said: "Sometimes no words seem adequate when a tragedy like what occurred in Clonmel tonight happens.
No words can give comfort at this time."
Mattie McGrath, Independent TD for Tipperary, said there was "disbelief and numbness" in Clonmel.
"The families involved are all local, from Clonmel and the surrounding area. It is utterly devastating. Our prayers are with the families and the whole community."
Fine Gael councillor Declan Burgess said: "It's heartbreaking news for the entire community.
"My prayers and thoughts are with the families involved."
Scene examined by forensic experts
A Garda spokesperson said: "An incident room has been established at Clonmel Garda station and a senior investigating officer has been appointed to lead the investigation.
"Gardai are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to contact the investigation team."
The Leaving Certificate Examination, often referred to as the Leaving Cert, is the final exam of the Irish secondary school system.
