UPDATE: Irish musician Glen Hansard dies following motorcycle crash near Kildare border

Irish singer-songwriter and Oscar winner Glen Hansard has died following a motorcycle crash near the Kildare-Dublin border.

56-year-old Hansard first came to prominence with The Frames, one of Ireland's most influential rock bands. He later achieved international recognition through Once, the low-budget Dublin-set musical drama that became a global success and earned him an Oscar.

His death marks a significant loss for Irish music with tributes expected in the coming hours from fellow musicians, political figures and fans who were inspired by his work.

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In a statement on Wednesday, Gardaí said they were appealing for witnesses following a fatal single-vehicle collision on Lower Road, Strawberry Beds, Lucan, Dublin on Wednesday July 29, 2026.

Shortly before 4:30am, Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to a collision involving a motor cycle on the R109 Lower Road, between Tinkers Hill (R121) and Rugged Lane.

The motorcyclist, a man in his 50s, was treated at the scene but was pronounced deceased a short time later.

The scene has been preserved for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Local traffic diversions are currently in place.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward. Road users who may have relevant camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area at the time are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lucan Garda Station at (01) 666 7300, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Details of funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.