Ireland’s child and family agency has confirmed that one of the five teenagers killed in the devastating M9 motorway collision was in its care, while two others who died were known to its services.
Tusla said its staff are supporting families affected by the tragedy and are continuing to work closely with An Garda Síochána as investigations into the fatal collision continue.
Five teenagers lost their lives when the car in which they were travelling collided head-on with another vehicle while travelling the wrong way along the M9.
Those who died were Joe Carthy, from Athy, Co Kildare; Alex McCarthy, from Carlow; Kamil Pustkowski, from Limerick; Jeremy O’Brien; and Jack Kennedy.
Tusla confirms involvement with three teenagers
In a statement, Tusla expressed its condolences to the families and communities affected by the deaths and acknowledged the extremely sensitive circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The agency confirmed that one of those who died had been in its care and that two others were known to Tusla services.
Staff have been in contact with the families involved.
Tusla said the incident has been deeply traumatic not only for the teenagers’ families and friends, but also for staff and communities dealing with the loss of five young lives.
The agency is working with the Children and Young People’s Services Committee and other partner organisations to ensure appropriate support is available to those affected.
National Review Panel to receive information
Tusla has also confirmed it will provide all necessary information to the National Review Panel.
The panel independently examines certain deaths and serious incidents involving children who were in State care or known to Tusla services.
The process could therefore examine the circumstances surrounding the agency’s previous involvement with the young people concerned.
Funerals begin as communities mourn
Funeral arrangements for the teenagers are now under way as communities across Kildare, Carlow and further afield struggle to come to terms with the tragedy.
Alex McCarthy’s funeral is due to take place at The Holy Family Church in Askea, Carlow, with Jeremy O’Brien’s funeral also due to be held at the same church.
A community vigil is also being held at Saint Clare’s Church in Graiguecullen, bringing residents together to remember those who died and support their families.
Family in second car remains in hospital
Three women and a seven-year-old boy who were travelling in the other vehicle involved in the collision remain in hospital receiving treatment for their injuries.
An online fundraiser established to support the injured family has raised more than €500,000, following an extraordinary response from members of the public.
An Garda Síochána continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and the events leading up to the teenagers’ vehicle travelling the wrong way along the motorway.
