Gardaí investigating a fatal hit-and-run in County Clare have appealed for information regarding a silver or gold Skoda Octavia following the death of 16-year-old Bryan Lowe. The sixth-year student was killed on Friday night near the Clare-Limerick border after being struck while riding an e-bike, prompting an active investigation and widespread community mourning.
Garda Appeal for Silver-Gold Skoda Octavia
According to Gardaí, the fatal incident occurred shortly after 11pm on Friday on the L3050 at Cottage Cross near Cloonlara. Bryan Lowe, a resident of County Clare and a student at St Munchin’s College in Limerick, was found unresponsive by the roadside. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities stated that a second vehicle involved in the collision failed to remain at the location.
Investigators released a photograph of a silver or gold Skoda Octavia, bearing the registration number 05-C-5982. Gardaí stated that this vehicle was driven in the vicinity of Clonlara and Castleconnell in County Clare between 6pm on Friday and 11am on Saturday. Road users who were in the Cloonlara and Castleconnell area during that time window have been asked to check for camera footage, including dash-cam recordings, and make it available to investigating officers.
Did You Know? The victim, 16-year-old Bryan Lowe, was riding an e-bike when he was struck near the Clare-Limerick border.
Community and School Tributes Following the Tragedy
The sudden loss of the teenager has drawn emotional responses from his family, local representatives, and his school community. The boy’s family shared photographs online, with his mother stating she was “heartbroken and traumatised.” An aunt wrote online that her nephew passed away “under cruel circumstances,” while a family friend called the incident “every parent’s worst nightmare.”
Local Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe expressed his sympathies, stating, “There are no words – Like many of people in our local area I have woken up to this heartbreaking news, my heart goes out to (the boy’s) poor family.” St Munchin’s College deputy principal Lorraine Shiels paid tribute to the student, noting that the school opened its doors on Sunday for students seeking support. Shiels described Lowe as “an absolute gentleman to meet on the corridor” who had “a lovely kindness to him and a big heart.”
How to Contact Investigating Authorities
Investigations into the fatal collision remain ongoing. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact Henry Street Garda station at 061 212400, the Garda confidential line at 1800 666 111, or any local Garda station.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicle are Gardaí searching for in connection with the incident?
Gardaí are seeking to speak with the driver or occupants of a silver or gold Skoda Octavia with the registration number 05-C-5982, which was operating in the Cloonlara and Castleconnell areas between Friday evening and Saturday morning.
Where did the fatal collision take place?
The incident occurred shortly after 11pm on Friday on the L3050 at Cottage Cross near Cloonlara, situated on the Clare-Limerick border.
Who should be contacted with information regarding the hit-and-run?
Anyone with information or camera footage is asked to contact Henry Street Garda station, the Garda confidential line, or any local Garda station.
What measures can local authorities take to improve safety for vulnerable road users like cyclists on rural routes?