LISTEN: Driver killed in M1 lorry crash in Co Louth was Ciaran McShane from Northern Ireland

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By Q Radio News

A man who was killed in a collision between a car and a lorry on the M1 in Co Louth has been named locally as Ciaran McShane from Northern Ireland. 

The married father, who was in his 30's, lived just outside Kilrea in Co Londonderry. 

He was travelling southbound between Junction 17 and Junction 16 near Dundalk when the crash happened at around 5am this morning. 

The lorry driver, who is in his early 40s, escaped injury but was arrested at the scene. 

A garda spokesperson said: "The lorry driver (early 40s) was uninjured and was arrested at the scene. He is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at Dundalk Garda Station."

Causeway Coast and Glens councillor Sean Bateson knew Mr McShane and says he was highly thought of in the community. 

"Absolutely shocked and devastated to hear of the tragic passing of Ciaran today," he said.  

"Ciaran, or ‘Beastie’ as he was nicknamed by friends and family, was a proper gentleman.

"One of life’s good guys. 

"I know the entire community of Kilrea and further afield are stunned and saddened of this tragedy.

"No one expects to wake up in the morning and hear of such terrible news, it’s really awful. 

"My thoughts and prayers go out to Ciaran’s partner, his children, and the entire McShane family at this difficult time." 

Councillor Helena Dallat O'Driscoll also expressed sadness following the "devastating" news. 

“It is heartbreaking that a family has lost someone so young and who is also a father of such very young children," she said. 

"Kilrea is a tight-knit community and will be shocked and saddened at this devastating news.

"My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to Ciaran’s family circle.”

Chairman of Kilrea GAC, Martin McWilliams, said he has no doubt the community will rally behind Mr McShane's heartbroken family. 

"He was a past player here at the club," he said. 

"We are all very saddened to hear about this and our hearts go out the family. 

"Ciaran was a very and decent and upstanding lad."

Gardai are appealing for witnesses to contact them.  

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