ORANMORE, CO GALWAY – A community is in mourning after a young man lost his life in a devastating road collision on Friday afternoon, April 4th. The victim, Patrick De La Ruelle, a man in his 20s, has been named locally as tributes continue to flood in for the much-loved and talented motorcyclist.
The fatal crash occurred shortly after 4 p.m. on the N67 at Tonroe in Oranmore and involved a motorcycle and a car. Emergency services and Gardaí rushed to the scene, but tragically, Patrick was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later. He was the sole casualty of the collision; no other injuries were reported.
Patrick’s death has sent shockwaves through his community, particularly as the accident occurred on his birthday, compounding the heartbreak for his grieving family and friends.
A heartfelt tribute shared in the wake of the tragedy read:
“Losing a child is an unimaginable pain, and for it to happen on his birthday makes it even more heartbreaking. There are no words that can truly comfort such a loss, but please know you’re in my thoughts and prayers. Your son was a bright soul who touched many lives, and his memory will forever live on.”
Friends and loved ones have described Patrick as a gifted rider and a “bright soul” whose positivity and spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Following the accident, Patrick’s body was transported to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway, where a post-mortem examination will be carried out. The Coroner has been notified, and Gardaí have completed a full forensic examination of the scene. The stretch of road, which had been temporarily closed, has since reopened to traffic.
An appeal for witnesses has been issued by Gardaí as they continue their investigation into the circumstances of the crash.
In a statement to Galway Beo, a Garda spokesperson said:
“Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision in Oranmore, Co. Galway, on Friday, 4th April 2025. Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to a collision involving a car and motorcycle on the N67 at Tonroe, Oranmore, shortly after 4 p.m. The motorcyclist, a male in his 20s, was pronounced deceased at the scene. His body was removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway, where a post-mortem examination will take place.”
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who may have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident is urged to come forward. Gardaí are asking anyone with information to contact Galway Garda Station at (091) 538000, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
Patrick De La Ruelle’s tragic passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His memory will be cherished, and his legacy as a spirited and kind-hearted young man will not be forgotten.