Two teenagers from the Shantallow area of Derry, identified as Daniel Cullen and Caoimhin Porter, tragically lost their lives in a fatal collision with a lorry in St Johnston, Co Donegal. The incident occurred on the R236 road as the young men were returning home to Derry after a visit to Asda in Strabane. The collision involved their Vauxhall Corsa and a Volvo FH 500 lorry pulling a cattle trailer.

Local priest Fr Damien Nejad arrived at the scene to provide the last rites to one of the teenagers. Sadly, one of the young men was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other passed away shortly after at Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry.

Following the heartbreaking incident, the community is in shock, with support being offered by the Shantallow Community Centre and grief counselors. The collision site, a known blackspot, was closed for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Local officials and residents expressed deep sorrow and condolences for the families and friends of the deceased teenagers.

Councillor Gary Doherty described the tragedy as devastating, emphasizing the profound impact on the close-knit community of St Johnston and the wider area. Efforts are underway to gather information on the collision, urging witnesses to come forward and provide any relevant footage to aid the investigation.

In the midst of this profound loss, the community is rallying together to offer support to the affected families and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. Post mortem examinations will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation, with authorities seeking cooperation from the public to piece together the events leading to the tragic accident.