Boy, aged 12, dies after train and car collision at Mayo level crossing Fri, 04 Sep, 2026 – 07:07Alex Cunningham
Gardaí are appealing for information following a fatal collision between a train and car in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, that claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy on Thursday evening.
The collision took place shortly after 8.45pm at a level crossing in Kiltybo, near Ballyhaunis.
A passenger in the car, a 12-year-old boy, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car, a man in his late 40s, was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment. His injuries are not life-threatening.
All passengers on the train safely disembarked and onward transport was arranged.
Garda appeal for footage
A technical examination of the scene will be carried out by Forensic Collision Investigators. The road remains closed following the collision.
The Coroner has been notified and the deceased has been removed to the mortuary at Mayo University Hospital, where a post-mortem examination will be arranged.
Road users and pedestrians with camera footage, including dashcam footage, who were in the area of Kiltybo, Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, on Thursday, September 3, between 8.15pm and 9.15pm are asked to make this footage available to investigating gardaí.
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Road safety minister Seán Canney paid tribute to the deceased and said a safety report was being carried out in the wake of the collision.
“I want to, on behalf of myself and the department, extend my deepest sympathies to the families affected by this horrific collision,” Mr Canney said on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland.
“Our thoughts and our prayers are with them at this time, and also with the drivers of the trains and their families.”
Second incident on rail line
The fatal collision was the second incident on the Westport-Dublin rail line on Thursday. A train had previously struck a tractor at a level crossing between Portarlington and Tullamore.
“Two accidents, incidents in the one evening, it’s frightening to think that this can happen, and hopefully we will see what caused these accidents, so that if there’s anything we can do to prevent them into the future, rail is a very safe mode of transport, and these incidents are very rare, but they are very tragic.”
The line between Westport and Athlone is due to remain closed until further notice.
Replacement bus transfers have been organised for commuters, while the Ballina to Manulla services will operate through to Claremorris.
In a post on social media platform X, Iarnród Éireann said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by today’s incidents.
“We’ll continue to do our best to provide clear and timely updates as info becomes available.
“A sincere thank you to all passengers/staff for your patience, understanding and cooperation during this challenging day.”
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