A community in west Cork is in shock after two people died when their car entered water in the area this morning.
The two men named locally as Michael Bowen (40) from Ahakista and Tadhg Murphy (19) from Glengarriff lost their lives at Glengarriff on the Kenmare Road at around 5.30am. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
A third man was airlifted to hospital in Cork with serious injuries, while a fourth male occupant of the car was uninjured.
The two survivors are both believed to be from the Glengarriff area.
It’s a close-knit community and a small rural community, and you know, people have great care and love for each other, and it’s just a tragedy that has unfolded this morning that’s absolutely shocking.
Local Independent TD Michael Collins says the area is trying to come to terms with what happened: “For this tragedy to hit them on the week that it is, or any time for that matter, is a cause of great upset to the whole of that area, the greater Bantry area and down towards Kilcrohane area - it’s an absolute tragedy that’s hard to comprehend at this time.”
“It’s a close-knit community and a small rural community, and you know, people have great care and love for each other, and it’s just a tragedy that has unfolded this morning that’s absolutely shocking," he added.
The road was closed earlier for a forensic examination, with local diversions in place.
Gardaí are now appealing for anyone in the area who saw a black Volkswagen Jetta to contact them.
Superintendent Declan O'Sullivan says the investigation is ongoing.
"The incident occurred between Glengarriff village and the National park in Glengarriff, which is about a mile outside the town on the Kenmare road.
We are investigating all circumstances of the accident, so we are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed anything or may have any information in relation to the occupants of the car, or the car itself" added Mr O'Sullivan.
