Tributes paid to crew tragically killed in Sligo Stages Rally

The two competitors killed in a crash at the Sligo Stages Rally on Sunday have been named as Gene McDonald and Daire Maguire.

The fatal collision happened during special stage 6, Carrickbanagher at Carrowcushcly in Ballymote at around 3pm.

The Mk2 Escort the two were driving collided with a wall after losing control.

The rally was halted immediately following the single-vehicle crash.

Driver Mr McDonald and his navigator Mr Maguire were pronounced dead at the scene. The experienced competitors were popular figures across the Irish rallying scene.

Mr McDonald was a native of Cootehill in County Cavan while Mr Maguire hailed from Lisnaskea in County Fermanagh.

Gardai have asked that video footage of the incident not be shared on social media.

A Garda spokesperson said: “An Garda Síochána is requesting that footage of this collision is not shared across social media or messaging applications. Anyone with video footage is asked to make this available to Gardaí. 

“No further information is available at this time. Updates will follow when appropriate.”

Motorsport Ireland, the sport’s governing body, extended its sympathies to the family and friends of the two who died.

A statement said: “Motorsport Ireland also extends its sympathies to the members of Connacht Motor Club and everyone involved with organising today's event who reacted so quickly and professionally to the incident.

“Motorsport Ireland and its affiliated clubs are recognised internationally for operating to the highest standards of motorsport safety for competitors and spectators in line with the best practice of the FIA.

“Motorsport Ireland has begun a full investigation with the relevant authorities into the events at today's event to establish how this accident occurred.”