Man, 30s, arrested as teen killed in Kerry hit-and-run named locally

The teenager had just celebrated his 17th birthday.

The incident involving a van and a pedestrian occurred on the N69 near Dromin Upper, Listowel, on Saturday, September 26, around 3am.

The van failed to remain at the scene.

The male pedestrian, named locally as Rory O’Connor from Athea in Limerick, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

He had just celebrated his 17th birthday.

Athea Community Council led tributes for the teenager, saying they were left 'deeply saddened and left numb' at the tragic news.

"We remember Rory fondly from when he kindly read a poem at the retirement event for our local doctor, Dr Kieran Murphy in 2022. It was a lovely act of kindness and community spirit that has stayed with us.

"Rory was one of our young people, and his loss has left the whole community heartbroken. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this devastating time. As a community, we will stand together in remembering Rory and supporting those closest to him."

The post concluded: "Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam."

After locating the van involved, Gardaí have arrested a man in his 30s.

He is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 in a Garda Station in the Kerry Division.

The N69 between Cahirdown Roundabout, Listowel (Main Tarbert Road) and the townland of Derry, Listowel, was closed for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators, but has since reopened.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this incident to come forward.

Anyone who may have been travelling on the N69 near Dromin Upper, Listowel, Co. Kerry on Saturday 26th September 2026 between 2.30am and 4am and who may have camera footage, including dash cam or mobile phone recordings are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Listowel Garda Station on (068) 50820, the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.