A vigil will be held this evening in Clonmel following the tragic crash in the town which claimed 4 young lives

They were on the way to exam results celebrations

A vigil is being held for the four young people were killed in a car crash in Co Tipperary.
Author: Hannah PattersonPublished 27th Aug 2023

A vigil is being held for the four young people were killed in a car crash in Co Tipperary while on the way to exam results celebrations.

Mass services today are expected to honour Luke McSweeney, 24, his 18-year-old sister Grace McSweeney, Zoey Coffey and Nicole Murphy, both also 18.

A prayer vigil led by the local clergy and the Mayor of Clonmel, Richie Molloy. It will take place in Kickham Plaza at 6.30pm.

On Monday at 10.30am, a Mass in their honour will be offered and broadcast on RTE News Now, according to Father Michael Toomey, who is a chaplain at CBS High School.

Members of the public can sign books of condolence at council offices from 11am on Monday.

The principals of the two schools the three teenagers attended paid tribute to them, and said they were looking forward to the next phase of their lives.

Principal of Presentation Secondary School, Michael O’Loughlin, described Ms McSweeney as "thoughtful, considerate, and hard-working" and "a gifted gymnast and a dancer".

Clonmel Majorettes said Ms McSweeney had been a dedicated member of their club "for many years", and was "a great talent in both dancing, baton and gymnastics".

Mr O'Loughlin described Ms Coffey as "warm and vibrant", and "a diligent worker" who was popular in the school.

Principal of Loreto Secondary School, Anne McGrath, described Ms Murphy as "kind, gentle and witty", and "a trusted and loyal friend".

Irish President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar were among those who expressed their sympathies, with Mr Varadkar saying the nation is in mourning.

Gardai are appealing for witnesses and said their investigation is focusing on preparing a report for the local coroner.