Gardai investigating possible gang link and intention to harm in death of Clare teen

Gardaí are investigating that the hit-and-run death of Bryan Lowe, 16, at Cloonlara, Co Clare, on Friday night was intentional.

It is still unknown who the occupants of the car were, it is thought could be involved with a local gang.

Lowe sent a text to a friend shortly before his death, saying he thought he was being followed. The student at St Munchin’s College, suffered severe facial and head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gardaí are now investigating whether the teenager might have been fleeing from someone or whether he might have been rammed by a car after an attempt to steal his e-bike.

The boy was found unresponsive by the L3050 roadside at Cottage Cross near Cloonlara. The car failed to remain at the scene.

Gardaí appealed for information about the movements of a silver or gold Skoda Octavia, registration 05-C-5982, in the Cloonlara area on Friday evening.

A Skoda was reported on fire in the Castleconnell area on Saturday. While the vehicle was badly damaged, some was still salvageable for investigation.

CCTV footage from properties around Cloonlara and Castleconnell is being collected.

Bryan's mother, Crystal Lowe, said she and his two sisters are "devastated" and added that "Bryan will be sadly missed".

She posted on social media: “Love you my son. Heartbroken.”

His sister Chloe has paid tribute to Bryan, who she said was the best uncle to her son.

“Oh my brother, how do I tell your nephew Thomas we’ll never see you again?

“I cannot describe the pain and heartache we feel. I wish you’d just ring me and tell me you are ok.

“I love you with every piece of my broken heart.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Henry Street Garda Station on (061) 212400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

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