An extended Derry family is facing a “living nightmare” after a Donegal crash claimed a second life.
The driver of the car, Eoghán Dawson (20), died in hospital yesterday. His cousin Kían Dawson-Kirk (16), a front seat passenger, was killed when their car struck a wall.
Eoghán died in Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital having been airlifted from the accident site at the Glentogher Road, near Quigley’s Point on Saturday evening.
It is believed Eoghán was an organ donor and his family carried out his wishes following the tragic accident.
Belinda Doran, a member of the boys’ extended family, said they will remain “forever young.”
“We are the family of the boys involved in the recent tragedy,” she said.
“A quick trip to their favourite place soon turned into a living nightmare.
“Two beautiful cousins, Eoghán and Kían were involved in a fatal road accident and now will remain forever young.”
The boys’ families have set up an online fundraiser to help them “cover funeral costs and alleviate pressure from our devastated family”.
Paying online tribute to Eoghán, his friend Gary McDevitt, said his death was “like a bad dream”
He added: “Wee Eoghán Dawson taken from us too soon, him and his wee cousin Kían. May you rest in peace.”
Mr McDevitt added: “Let me tell you about Eoghán. He was an absolute character, full of craic and didn’t have a care in the world. Not only was he my wee gym buddy but felt like he was a wee brother to me. Always did my best to keep him right. Me and him always had a laugh so we did. I’m glad I had the opportunity to meet you bud and I hope you impacted your life as you did mine.
“To think that me and you were sitting chatting and joking away on Friday, talking about doing this and that, getting a day’s fishing. Life is nothing but cruel.
“You always joked about being bigger and stronger than me. Had me tortured. Knew how to wind me up. You are the bigger one and the stronger one now sir and you’ll save many lives. Absolute warrior and I’m so proud of you brother.”
Eoghán was employed by LMC Media in Derry.
In a Facebook tribute the publicity company said it had “lost an integral part of the team. A man a lot of you will know from events. My wee bro. My best mate. Eoghán ‘Dawsy’ Dawson”.
“Won’t be the same without you bro!
“Please keep this in mind if travelling home late from events folks. Stay safe.”
A Garda spokesperson said it was continuing to investigate the fatal road traffic collision.
A former pupil of St Columb’s College in Derry, Kían’s funeral will take place on Thursday at 11am at St Brigid’s Church, Carnhill.
