Three Irish tourists have died in a road crash near Malaga in southern Spain, with another Irish person injured, authorities confirmed. The collision occurred on the A7 motorway at 2:38 am local time on Sunday, when two vehicles crashed and one careered down an embankment.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Emergency services, including firefighters and Guardia Civil officers, attended the scene. Spanish authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. The Department of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance to the families of the deceased.
Minister of State Robert Troy, who knows one of the affected families, described the news as "absolutely devastating." Speaking to RTÉ, he said: "I spoke to them yesterday and needless to say they're absolutely devastated. It's the worst of phone calls to get, they only went on holidays at the end of last week." He added that the local community in Ireland was equally saddened.
Consular Support and Community Reaction
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated: "The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of this incident in Spain, and is currently providing consular assistance to the families involved. The Department does not comment on the specifics of individual cases." Spanish authorities have been approached for further comment.
The tragedy has struck a chord in Ireland, with Minister Troy expressing condolences: "Our thoughts are with that family and indeed all families affected and all we can do is hold them in our thoughts and prayers as they come to terms with this great loss." The incident remains under investigation.
