A DEVASTATING week on Donegal’s roads has prompted authorities to issue an urgent road safety warning, as four lives were lost in separate incidents across the county.
The tragic series of events began last Saturday night when two cousins were involved in a single-vehicle crash at Cross, Quigley’s Point.
Sixteen-year-old Kian Dawson died at the scene, while his 20-year-old cousin, Eoghan Dawson, succumbed to his injuries in hospital a few days later.
The close-knit community was left reeling from the loss, and large crowds gathered in the pouring rain at St Brigid’s Church, Carnhill, for Kian’s Requiem Mass on Thursday.
Many more stood outside to pay their respects as pupils from Kian’s former schools provided a poignant guard of honour.
Today, the funeral of Eoghan Dawson will take place at St. Patrick’s Church in Pennyburn.
Eoghan is remembered by his grieving parents, Lisa Dawson and Connor Smith, and his wider family circle. A funeral notice described him as “an amazing friend and a true gentleman.”
The sorrowful week continued as an 87-year-old woman, Elizabeth Cave (née Coburn) of Donegal Town, was killed following a two-car collision in Inver last Sunday morning.
Ms. Cave, a beloved member of her community, passed away in Sligo University Hospital from injuries sustained in the crash.
An Austrian national has been charged with dangerous driving in connection with the incident. Mrs. Cave was laid to rest on Saturday, leaving behind a community in mourning.
In another heart-breaking incident, Patricia McBrearty, a woman in her 80s, died after being struck by a lorry on Church Street in St Johnston on Friday afternoon.
The collision occurred just yards from her home. Her funeral arrangements are yet to be confirmed.
In light of these tragic events, Gardaí have issued a stark reminder to drivers about the importance of road safety.
As the summer draws to a close and schools reopen nationwide, the National Slow Down Day will be observed between Monday, September 2nd, and Tuesday, September 3rd.
This day of action aims to protect vulnerable road users, including children walking or cycling to school, as well as those traveling by school bus.
Authorities have revealed that over 70,000 fixed charge penalty notices for speeding were issued in the first six months of 2024—an average of 375 per day. Gardaí are urging motorists to slow down, stay vigilant, and prioritise safety on the roads to prevent further tragedies.
“Speeding not only puts you at risk but also endangers the lives of others around you,” Gardaí said in a statement.
“Every time you speed, there is an increase in the likelihood of losing control of your vehicle, which could lead to a serious or fatal accident.”
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