A major investigation is underway following the tragic death of 15-year-old Tadhg Callaghan Carter during the Donegal International Rally in County Donegal, Ireland. Gardaí have issued an urgent public appeal for witnesses and are asking anyone who was present at Location 15 on Special Stage 12 at Gartan, near Trentagh, to come forward with mobile phone videos, pH๏τographs, or dashcam recordings that may ᴀssist investigators.

According to Gardaí, emergency services were alerted shortly before 5:00 p.m. on June 20, 2026, after an incident involving a participating rally car occurred near a spectator area. Tadhg, who was attending the event, suffered fatal injuries and was transported to Letterkenny University Hospital, where he was later pronounced ᴅᴇᴀᴅ. Two other spectators were also injured and received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

The tragedy prompted organizers to cancel the remainder of the Donegal International Rally as a mark of respect to the victim and his family. Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club subsequently confirmed that a full investigation had been launched into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Investigators are now focused on establishing a precise timeline of events. Gardaí have specifically requested that anyone who was present at the location and may have recorded footage before, during, or after the incident provide unedited material to ᴀssist the inquiry. Officials believe such evidence could prove critical as forensic investigators and the local coroner examine exactly what happened.

Authorities have confirmed that a post-mortem examination will be conducted, and the findings are expected to form an important part of the ongoing investigation. Gardaí continue to interview witnesses and review available evidence while seeking additional information from members of the public.

The incident has cast what local leaders described as a “cloud of grief” over the region. Tributes have continued to pour in for Tadhg, with community members expressing condolences to his family and friends as they cope with the devastating loss.

As investigators work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy, Gardaí have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the investigation to proceed based on verified evidence and witness accounts.