Post-mortems due on five teenagers killed in M9 collision

Five local teenagers lost their lives in a head-on collision on the M9 motorway. The victims were Joe Carthy from Athy, Co Kildare; Alex McCarthy from Carlow; Kamil Pustkowski from Limerick; Jeremy O'Brien and Jack Kennedy. The accident occurred between Junction 3 and Junction 4 of the M9, near Moone, Co Kildare, just before 3am on Sunday morning.

Their car was traveling southbound on the northbound carriageway when it collided with another vehicle. Three women and a seven-year-old boy were occupants of the other car, which sustained severe injuries. Two of the women are in critical condition, while the third woman and the boy are in serious condition. Forensic investigators examined the scene, and both vehicles were removed from the motorway.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed shock and sorrow over the incident, which he deemed the result of an irresponsible and dangerous act. Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan informed Garda Commissioner about proposed legislation to strengthen garda protections in pursuit cases. A priest in Co Carlow reported widespread sadness in the county, with Fr Tom Little offering his condolences to the families and wishing for a speedy recovery for the injured.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly confirmed An Garda Síochána's full cooperation with the police ombudsman Fiosrú's investigation. The child and family agency, Tusla, pledged support to the local families and communities affected.