‘Unspeakable tragedy’ – Community in shock as mother and daughter (8) killed in horror Mayo crash

Emergency services are currently at the scene of the crash, which occurred at 5.45pm, at Callow between Foxford and Swinford.

The deceased, a mother in her 40s, who was driving the car and her young daughter, are understood to be from the local area. The driver of the lorry was taken to hospital with injuries that are understood to be non-life threatening.

It is understood the bodies remain at the scene as a major emergency operation involving paramedics, gardaí and fire brigade personnel continues.

The N26 is closed pending the completion of a garda forensic collision investigation of the crash scene.

Local Fianna Fáil councillor John Caulfield said the community is “united in shock and devastation”.

“This is another unspeakable tragedy to happen here in Mayo and local to us here in the Swinford area. It’s another family absolutely destroyed tonight,” he told the Irish Independent.

“It’s hard to find words when horrific tragedies like this happen but all I can say is we are praying for the family of the young girl and her mother.

“We are praying for their family who have to try and cope with a loss so huge it is unimaginable.”

Local councillor Joe Faughnan said there is a dark cloud hanging over the area tonight following the news of the tragedy.

“There is a great sense of shock in the community as we await more details about the collision,” he said.

“It is just so sad and there is a dark cloud hanging over the area tonight.

“All my thoughts and condolences are with the family affected by the tragedy.

“Every road death is one that we hope to avoid, and it is so sad for the family and a massive shock for all involved.

“The main thing tonight is that everyone is thinking of the family and sending condolences.

“We live in a good community that will rally around and support the family at this difficult time.”

In a statement, gardaí said: “The scene of the collision on the N26 (Foxford to Swinford Road) is currently closed and local diversions are in place. A technical examination is being conducted by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators.

“Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.

“Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N26 between Swinford and Foxford between 5.00pm and 6.00pm on Tuesday evening are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ballina Garda Station on 096 20560, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.”

Today’s News in 90 Seconds – July 2nd