Tributes paid to 'caring' and 'kind' 13-year-old who died in tragic racing accident

Tributes have poured in on social media following the news of a fatal accident at a motorsport event in County Cork, that saw 13-year-old, Lauren O'Brien sadly lose her life.

The accident happened on Sunday the 4th of May 2025 at approximately 3:30pm. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Read Next: RIP: Gardai stand down search for missing man (44) following tragic update

Tributes were posted on social media by Lauren's school which reads:

"The devastating news reached us yesterday afternoon that following a tragic accident, 1st year student Lauren O’Brien had passed away. Lauren was a beautiful girl, inside and out, bubbly, fun loving, kind, caring, a loveable rogue. Lauren’s vivacious spirit and the ever-present twinkle in her eye will be fondly remembered forever by all at McEgan College. She will be missed dearly by her classmates, friends and teachers and our entire school community.
We extend our deepest sympathy to her loving family, her parents Therese and Timmy, her brother Josh who is a 2nd year student at our school, sister Shannon, and all those who loved Lauren and had the privilege of knowing her."

The Road Race Alliance of Ireland has also posted on social media and the post reads:

"Lauren was a young girl with a brave heart and a passion for racing. Her loss is unimaginable, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to her family, her friends, her fellow competitors, and everyone who knew and loved her.
When a tragedy like this happens, it ripples through every paddock, every track, and every corner of the racing world. No matter what we ride or drive, we all understand the love, the risk, and the heartbreak that comes with this sport."

Comments on social media are full of tributes to Lauren and a selection of them read as follows:

"Such a special young person. Privileged to have known her."

Another reads:

"Condolences to Lauren's family, friends and to all at McEgan College, it's just heart breaking, may her gentle soul rest in peace."

A third user also writes:

"Had the pleasure of meeting Lauren last month and she was such a beautiful girl very kind and very friendly, may her gently soul rest in peace and deepest condolences to her heartbroken Family and all those who knew and loved her."