Little girl, 9, dies in hospital days after mother killed in horror crash

A young girl has tragically died from the injuries she sustained in a horror car crash that also claimed her mother’s life.

The child, identified locally as nine-year-old Irena (Ira) Mereacre, had been in a critical condition following the accident in Co Cavan, Ireland, which killed her mother, Nell Raven, on Friday. Gardai confirmed today (Tuesday) that she had sadly died.

Irena and Ms Raven, aged 53 and English-born though recently granted Irish citizenship, were involved in a collision between their vehicle and a flatbed van near the village of Shercock at approximately 4.30pm on Friday, reports the Irish Mirror. Ms Raven, who worked as a writer and journalist, was declared dead at the scene.

Her young daughter sustained serious injuries and was transported to Temple Street Hospital in Dublin, where she succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday.

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In a statement, gardai said: “Gardaí continue to investigate a fatal road traffic collision on the R162 at Corclare, Shercock, Co. Cavan, on Friday 24th July 2026. The collision involved a car and a flatbed van, and occurred after 4.30pm (approximately).

“The driver of the car, a woman aged in her 50s, was pronounced deceased at the scene. A passenger in the car, a female juvenile child, was removed from the scene to Temple Street Hospital, where she passed away this afternoon, Tuesday 28th July 2026.”

Gardai have issued an appeal for witnesses to come forward.

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The statement said: “Any road users who were travelling in this area between 4:15pm and 5:00pm on Friday 24th July 2026 and who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.”

Those with any information are urged to get in touch with Bailieborough Garda Station on 042 969 4570, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or their nearest Garda station.

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