RIP: Teenage boy who died in Co Clare tractor crash just days after Christmas named locally

County Clare is in mourning following the unexpected passing of a Ballyea teenager just two days after Christmas; now named locally as TJ Chambers. 

The 16-year-old, who hailed from Newhall, was the sole occupant of a tractor which crashed shortly before 2pm on Saturday, December 27 along the R458 at Bunnahow, north of Crusheen in the county. 

The teenager was sadly pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

It is understood that the young man was an avid hurler with his local team in Ballyea and was widely known for his heavy involvement with both the U-15 and U-16 teams, also featuring in championship finals. 

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According to the Clare Echo, TJ was a popular student at St Flannan’s College in Ennis and was among the latest batch of promising hurlers coming through the ranks with Ballyea, including starting at full back when they contested the U15A final against Sixmilebridge in July 2023.

A death notice published on RIP.ie one day after the accident read: "Cherished and much loved by his heartbroken parents Tomás and Suzanne (nee Lee), his adored sisters Caoimhe and Laoise, his grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, relatives and a wide circle of friends."

The teenager's funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. 

Gardaí are now appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision to come forward. Road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the R458 between Gort and Crusheen around the time of the collision are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 6848100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Investigations are ongoing.