Young GAA star tragically dies after ‘terrible accident’ as tributes flood in

Moving tributes are pouring in from GAA clubs and the broader community, who remember him as a “true friend”, a “vital part” of his club

A promising young GAA player has tragically lost his life in a car accident, leaving his family, friends and the local sporting community devastated.

The fatal single-vehicle collision occurred on the M8 Southbound, at Upper Riverstown in Glanmire just before 7am on Wednesday. The victim has been identified locally as Billy O’Grady from North Cork, who was aged in his 20s.

Moving tributes are pouring in from GAA clubs and the broader community, who remember him as a “true friend”, a “vital part” of his club and a person of “great character”.

His club Shanballymore GAA has spearheaded the tributes to the young hurler by posting a collection of photographs on social media. They said: “It is with deep sadness and sorrow that Shanballymore GAA have learnt of the untimely passing of club player and friend Billy. A young man of great character and presence who was a credit to his family and our club.

“Our condolences go to his parents John and Caroline, siblings Jordon, Kelly and Ollie, girlfriend Chloe, extended family members, friends and all those in the Shanballymore community. Our focus remains on remembering Billy as a player, friend, and clubmate and supporting his family over this most difficult time in their lives,” reports the Irish Mirror.

“As a mark of respect to the O Grady and Butler families, all activities in Shanballymore GAA grounds are paused and the walkway will remain closed until further notice. Ar dheis se go raibh a anam.”

Billy also had a stint playing for St Dominic’s GAA club, who expressed their shock at the “tragic accident” that has left the community reeling.

They stated: “Today we learned with great sadness the heartbreaking news that we’ve lost one of our former players, Billy O’Grady, in a tragic accident. This is a terrible shock for all of us. Billy was more than just a player; he was a friend and a vital part of our club family.

“We will truly miss his presence and his dedication. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. We will let you know about any arrangements once we have. Attached find a few memories. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Gardaí continue to urge witnesses of the crash to come forward. A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a fatal single vehicle road traffic collision that occurred at approximately 6:50 am Wednesday 20th August 2025 on the M8 (J18) road Southbound, Upper Riverstown, Glanmire, Co Cork.

“A man, aged in his 20s, was brought by ambulance to Cork University Hospital. He was pronounced deceased on Wednesday afternoon.

“Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area between 6:40 am and 7:15 am this morning are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Mayfield Garda Station on 021 4558510 the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. Investigations are ongoing.”