Garryowen Rugby Club Former Player, Darren Ryan (30) dies in Athlunkard crash
A devastating tragedy struck the community of Meelick as thirty-year-old Darren Ryan lost his life in a single-vehicle fatal road collision at Athlunkard Bridge. The incident occurred on the R463 at Athlunkard Bridge, Corbally Road, Co. Limerick, at approximately 2:55 am on a somber Sunday morning.
A Fatal Collision
Darren Ryan’s life was tragically cut short when the minibus he was driving collided with Athlunkard Bridge in the early hours of that fateful Sunday morning. His body has been transferred to University Hospital Limerick for a post-mortem examination.
Road Closure and Investigation
The R463 at Athlunkard Bridge, Corbally, is currently closed, with local diversions in place. The services of Forensic Collision Investigators have been enlisted to determine the circumstances of the incident.
Witness Appeal
Gardaí are appealing to any witnesses of the collision to come forward. They are specifically requesting assistance from road users who may have camera footage, including dash-cam recordings, and were traveling on the R463 between 2:30 am and 3:30 am on that Sunday, November 5th, 2023. Providing such footage to Gardaí could be crucial in the investigation.
Anyone with information can contact Henry Street Garda station at 061 212 400, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
A Talented Athlete and a Beloved Figure
Darren Ryan was one of triplet brothers, alongside Evan and Gavan. He was an integral part of the powerful forward units with St Munchin’s Rugby Football Club and Young Munster Rugby Football Club during his school and junior years. In later years, he continued to make a significant impact on the field with Kilfeacle RFC and Garryowen FC, achieving notable success.
His rugby journey began with Young Munster, where he played at the senior level from 2013 to 2018. He even participated in the All Ireland league Semi Final in 2017 against Clontarf FC and contributed to the victorious Munster Junior Cup team in 2016 against Cork Constitution FC. His father, Ray, was a second row in the famous Young Munster All Ireland-winning league team in 1993 and had an illustrious hurling career with the Clare team.
Tributes and Condolences
Young Munster paid tribute to their former player, expressing their profound shock and sadness at Darren’s sudden passing. They extended their condolences to the Ryan family and noted that the Ryans have a long tradition of playing with Young Munster. Darren was remembered as an outstanding player whose character illuminated the dressing room, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of playing with or coaching him.
A Legacy of Potential and Achievements
Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF), described Darren as “an incredible young man with oceans of potential.” He highlighted Darren’s accomplishments in sports and his entrepreneurial spirit, noting that Darren’s son, Raemie, will be his enduring legacy on this earth. The community of Meelick mourns the loss of one of its beloved young members, and the memory of Darren Ryan will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
