Lauren O’Brien was described as a ‘beautiful girl, inside and out’ by her school (Pic: McEgan College/Facebook)
A deep sense of sorrow has swept across the community following the tragic death of 13-year-old Lauren O’Brien, who lost her life in a motor racing accident in Co Cork.
The young girl, from the village of Tarelton, was participating in a junior race at the Cork Autograss Racing Club when her vehicle was involved in a collision.
Emergency services responded swiftly, but despite their best efforts, Lauren was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
Lauren was a first-year student at McEgan College, Macroom, where she was cherished as a bubbly, kind-hearted, and spirited student.
The school described her as “a beautiful soul with a twinkle in her eye,” who brought joy to everyone around her. Her classmates, teachers, and friends are heartbroken.
Tributes have poured in from across the motorsport world, including fellow racers and community members who admired Lauren’s courage and passion for racing.
The Road Race Alliance of Ireland called her “a brave girl with a love for the sport,” expressing how deeply her loss is felt throughout the racing world.
Support is being offered to students and staff as the community grieves together. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and Gardaí are appealing for any information.
