An Irish minister has confirmed the tragic deaths of three Irish individuals in a severe accident that occurred in southern Spain.
The incident took place on the A7 motorway close to Malaga around 2.30am CEST (1.30am BST) when two vehicles collided, leading to one of the vehicles veering off an embankment beside the road, as per reports from Spanish authorities. Additionally, a fourth Irish national sustained serious injuries in the crash.
All individuals involved, reportedly hailing from Mullingar in Co Westmeath and aged in their late 20s to early 30s according to the Irish Mirror, were present at the scene where emergency services, including firefighters and Civil Guard officers, responded promptly.
Robert Troy, a minister of state at the Department of Finance and TD for Co Westmeath, expressed deep sorrow as he disclosed his personal connection to one of the affected families who received the distressing news on Sunday evening.
In a statement to RTE, Troy mentioned, “I spoke to them yesterday and needless to say they’re absolutely devastated. It’s the worst of phone calls to get, they only went on holidays at the end of last week.”
He further conveyed his sympathies, stating, “Our thoughts are with that family and indeed all families affected, and all we can do is hold them in our thoughts and prayers as they come to terms with this great loss.”
Troy also highlighted the profound impact on the local community, describing their reaction as “devastated” and “saddened.”
Minister for foreign affairs, Helen McEntee, emphasized the importance of supporting the families affected by the tragic incident, stating, “It is a tragic accident, a tragic incident, and the most important thing now is their families are supported and given every assistance possible.”
She extended her condolences to the families and informed that immediate support from her department and An Garda Siochana had been initiated, emphasizing the necessity to determine the circumstances of the accident.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed its awareness of the incident in Spain and stated that consular assistance is being provided to the affected families, refraining from commenting on individual case details.
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