Teenage spectator dies following accident at Donegal International Rally

The accident happened on the twelfth stage of the event when a competing car collided with a number of spectators. File Picture: Leah Farrell

A teenage spectator has died and two others have been injured in a crash during the Donegal International Rally on Saturday afternoon.

The accident happened on the twelfth stage of the event when a competing car collided with a number of spectators.

Three people were subsequently transferred by ambulance to Letterkenny University Hospital.

One of the three, a boy in his mid teens, was pronounced dead a short time later.

The two other spectators sustained non-life-threatening injuries and remain in hospital.

In a joint statement, Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club said they were "deeply saddened to confirm that a young male spectator has passed away following an accident on the twelfth stage of the Donegal International Rally".

The organisers also confirmed that the remainder of the event has been cancelled as a mark of respect.

"As the governing body for four-wheeled motorsport in Ireland, Motorsport Ireland together with An Garda Siochána, have begun a full investigation into the circumstances of the accident," the organisers said.

Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club also said they were aware of footage of the accident circulating on social media, and urged anyone who sees it not to share it.

"Motorsport Ireland and Donegal Motor Club express their deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased and ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time," they added.