Shocked community in Derrinturn mourns young men

The deaths of two young men in a car crash on Sunday night has left their families heartbroken and the close-knit community of Derrinturn shocked.

The two men, Mark Duffy (28) and Darragh O’Neill (21) are distant cousins and are from large, well-respected families in the area.

The accident happened at 7.50pm on Sunday evening, on a straight stretch of the R402 between Allenwood and Derrinturn near the entrance to the Drehid Landfill site.

It is understood the car in which they were travelling struck a tree, killing the pair instantly.

The two men were pronounced dead at the scene, and were removed to Naas Hospital from the scene.

The road was closed on Sunday evening and for much of yesterday, Monday, to allow for a Garda technical examination of the scene.

As word spread of the shocking tragedy, tributes poured in for the two men who were well regarded.

Mr O’Neill was a keen darts player who was on the Carbury team. Mr Duffy’s family is heavily involved in many aspects of community life in Derrinturn.

The funerals of both men will take place tomorrow, Thursday, October 9, in Derrinturn at 11am (Mr. O’Neill) and 1.30pm (Mr. Duffy).

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