Award-winning hurling star in tragic Texas road accident

By Mary Dennehy

A BOOK of condolences has been opened in memory of 23-year-old David O’Beirne, from Green Park in Walkinstown, who last week lost his life in a tragic road traffic accident in the US.

A keen hurler, David’s untimely passing has sparked “profound sadness” across his community and home club of St Jude’s GAA in Templeogue – where a book of condolences will remain open until this Sunday, August 5.

St Jude’s star hurler David O’Beirne tragically died in a road traffic accident in Austin, Texas

A former student of Mac Dara’s, David was on holidays with friends in Austin, Texas, when he was struck by a vehicle in the early hours of Friday morning, July 27.

The popular young sportsman, who has been described as a “top fella” and “really friendly”, was trying to cross an interstate when struck – and was sadly pronounced dead shortly after.

One of the nicest young men

In a statement, St Jude’s GAA Club said: “It was with profound sadness and heartbreak that we learnt of the tragic death of our club member, David O’Beirne.

“David was one of the nicest young men you could ever hope to meet and all at CLG Naomh Jude are devastated by his untimely passing.

“We would like to offer sincere condolences and our support to Jimmy, Helen, Alan and Rachel and to all of David’s relatives and friends.

“You are in our thoughts and prayers.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís, beidh sé inár gcroíthe go deo.”

David, who was a member of St Jude’s since being a young lad, was a previous winner of the club’s Intermediate Hurler of the Year award.

The Department of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance to the family. 

According to local news reports in Austin, a number of drivers called 911 after the incident, and remained at the scene to co-operate with investigations.