The Police Ombudsman Fiosrú has determined that Irish police acted appropriately during a pursuit of a car that subsequently crashed on the M9 motorway, resulting in the deaths of five teenage boys and serious injuries to four family members. The investigation was initiated following a mandatory referral from the Gardaí (Irish police) on August 16.
The watchdog examined the actions and decisions of the police during their interaction with the vehicle, focusing on the nature and extent of the contact prior to the fatal collision. The investigation aimed to ascertain whether the Gardaí adhered to legal requirements and established police policies and procedures.
According to the findings, Gardaí pursued a BMW car after receiving authorization from the Garda Control Room. The pursuit was terminated when the BMW entered the M9 dual carriageway against the direction of traffic. The control room subsequently confirmed that the pursuit should not continue. Other Garda units attempted to deploy a stopping device, but the BMW performed several U-turns before colliding head-on with an oncoming vehicle.
Police Ombudsman Emily Logan stated that the force's actions were "in line with relevant policies and procedures as determined by the Garda Commissioner." She emphasized that when a death occurs in incidents involving contact with the police, it is mandatory for such matters to be referred to Fiosrú for investigation. Logan added that Fiosrú's investigation was independent of the Gardaí and focused on understanding the events leading up to the collision. Her thoughts were extended to the families and friends affected by the "devastating incident," as well as to the Gardaí who responded to the scene.
This incident marks the sixth reported instance between 2021 and 2026 where Gardaí have encountered vehicles driving on the wrong side of the road. The collision occurred on August 16, involving a BMW and another car, leading to a significant emergency response.