Tributes have been paid to a “beautiful” 13-year-old girl who died in a motorsport racing crash in County Cork.
Lauren O’Brien was competing in an Autograss event at a race track in Castletown-Kinneigh, close to Bandon in west Cork, when her vehicle crashed on Sunday afternoon.
The teenager, from Knockane near Tarelton, died at the scene at the Cork Autograss Racing Club and her body was taken to Cork University Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Autograss is a form of motor racing on mud or grass which usually features modified production cars or buggies fitted with roll-cages.
Irish police are investigating the circumstances of the crash.
Lauren was a first-year student at McEgan College in Macroom and her school paid tribute on its Facebook page.
“Lauren was a beautiful girl, inside and out, bubbly, fun loving, kind, caring, a loveable rogue,” it said.
“Lauren’s vivacious spirit and the ever-present twinkle in her eye will be fondly remembered forever by all at McEgan College.
“She will be missed dearly by her classmates, friends and teachers and our entire school community.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to her loving family, her parents Therese and Timmy, her brother Josh who is a 2nd year student at our school, sister Shannon, and all those who loved Lauren and had the privilege of knowing her.”
The school opened on Monday, a public holiday, to offer support to students.
“May Lauren’s beautiful soul rest in peace,” the statement added.
Irish racing driver Hanna Celsie also posted a tribute on social media on Monday morning.
“My heart goes out to the family and friends of this young talented girl who sadly passed away yesterday after an accident, racing at an event put on by Cork Autograss Racing Club. RIP,” she wrote.
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Cork Sinn Fein senator Nicole Ryan said she was “heartbroken” in a post on Facebook.
“Lauren’s passion for motorsport and her bright spirit will never be forgotten,” she said.
“My deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all affected by this terrible loss.”
The Road Race Alliance of Ireland extended its sympathies to Lauren’s family and friends, while noting it represented two and three wheeled motorsports, and not Autograss.
“We are all part of one wider motorsport family – and today, we grieve together,” it said.
“Lauren was a young girl with a brave heart and a passion for racing.
“Her loss is unimaginable, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to her family, her friends, her fellow competitors, and everyone who knew and loved her.
“When a tragedy like this happens, it ripples through every paddock, every track, and every corner of the racing world.
“No matter what we ride or drive, we all understand the love, the risk, and the heartbreak that comes with this sport.”
