APPEAL: Gardaí urge social media users to avoid sharing video of fatal rally collision

Gardaí are urging social media users to avoid sharing a video of a fatal collision which occurred at the Sligo Stages Rally. 

The incident - involving a driver and passenger of a car - occurred yesterday afternoon (Sunday July 16) on the sixth stage of the rally at Carrowcushcly in Ballymote, Co Sligo at around 3pm. 

Both men suffered fatal injuries when their vehicle collided with a wall. 

Their bodies were later removed to Sligo University Hospital where a post-mortem will take place in due course. 

Anyone with video footage is asked to make this available to Gardaí. 

Gardaí can be contacted at Sligo Garda Station on 071 915 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station. 

Motorsport Ireland issued a statement following news of the collision. 

They stated: "Motorsport Ireland extends its deepest sympathies to the families and friends of two competitors who were fatally injured during a tragic accident while competing on the sixth stage of the 2023 Sligo Stages Rally. 

"Motorsport Ireland also extends its sympathies to the members of Connacht Motor Club and everyone involved with organising today's event who reacted so quickly and professionally to the incident." 

The group confirmed a full investigation into the cause of the incident will now take place. 

The FIA (Federation Internationale de l'Automobile) also commented on the incident, stating, "The FIA extends its condolences to the family and friends of the two competitors who were fatally injured in the 2023 Sligo Stages Rally. Our thoughts are also with Motorsport Ireland and the event organisers at this difficult time."