A teenage boy has died and two other spectators are in hospital after being struck by a participating car at the Donegal International Rally in Ireland on Saturday, 20 June 2026. The incident occurred just before 5pm near Trentagh, close to Kilmacrennan, in County Donegal.
Victim Pronounced Dead at Hospital
The victim, a male youth in his mid-teens, was rushed to Letterkenny University Hospital but was later pronounced deceased. A post-mortem examination is scheduled, and the scene has been cordoned off for investigation.
A Garda spokesperson told the Irish Mirror: "Gardaí are investigating the sudden death of a male youth following an incident at a motorsport event in Donegal on Saturday, 20th June 2026. Shortly before 5pm, Emergency Services and Gardaí were alerted after a number of spectators were injured in an incident involving a participating car at Trentagh, near Kilmacrennan."
Other Spectators Hospitalised with Non-Life-Threatening Injuries
Two other spectators were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Their conditions are not believed to be critical. Gardaí have appealed for anyone with footage of the incident not to share it on social media.
The spokesperson added: "An Garda Síochána is aware that images and video footage related to this incident are circulating on social media and messaging platforms. We appeal to anyone who receives this content to refrain from sharing or reposting it further."
Rally Cancelled After Fatal Accident
Organisers confirmed the remainder of the Donegal International Rally, which began on 19 June and was scheduled to conclude on 21 June, has been cancelled. The event was in its second day when the accident occurred on the 12th stage.
In a statement, Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club said: "Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club are deeply saddened to confirm that a young male spectator has passed away following an accident on the 12th stage of the Donegal International Rally. As a mark of respect, the organisers have cancelled the remainder of the event."
Investigation Underway
Motorsport Ireland, together with An Garda Síochána, has launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the accident. Rally organisers are cooperating with authorities.
The statement continued: "As the governing body for four-wheeled motorsport in Ireland, Motorsport Ireland, together with An Garda Síochána, has begun a full investigation into the circumstances of the accident. Motorsport Ireland are aware that video footage of the accident is circulating on social media and would ask anyone who sees it not to share it."
Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club expressed their deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased and asked that their privacy be respected.
