A Community United: Buncrana Pier Tragedy 10th Anniversary
In a poignant display of remembrance and solidarity, the community of Buncrana is preparing to mark the 10th anniversary of the tragic Buncrana Pier incident. The event, which occurred on March 20, 2016, claimed the lives of five family members, leaving an indelible mark on the region and the hearts of those who knew them.
The Tragic Incident
On that fateful evening, Sean McGrotty (49), his sons Mark (12) and Evan (8), his partner Louise James’s mother Ruth Daniels (57), and her daughter Jodie Lee Daniels (14) were traveling in an SUV when the vehicle tragically went into Lough Swilly from a slipway. The sole survivor was Ríoghnach-Ann McGrotty, who was only four months old at the time. In a heroic act, Mr. McGrotty handed his baby daughter to Davitt Walsh, a local man who had swam out to the family in a desperate bid to rescue them.
A Heroic Rescue Attempt
Davitt Walsh’s quick thinking and bravery saved the life of the infant, but the rest of the family could not be saved. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, leaving a void that has been felt deeply by all who knew the victims.
Commemorative Events
To mark the 10th anniversary, the McGrotty and Daniels families have organized a series of fundraisers to celebrate the lives of their loved ones and to honor the emergency services who were on the scene that night. The events are designed to bring the community together in remembrance and support.
The Remembrance Walk
A 5km remembrance walk is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 22, at 11 am. The walk will begin at the play park in Buncrana, where Mark, Evan, and Jodie were last seen playing, and will continue out towards Ned’s Point. This journey is intended to be a time of reflection, remembrance, and togetherness for all participants.
Following the walk, refreshments will be available at the RNLI station, providing an opportunity for everyone to gather, share memories, and support one another. A suggested contribution of £10 per person or £25 per family of four will help support the emergency services that responded to the tragedy.
Supporting the Community
The funds raised will be directed towards supporting the emergency services involved in the incident, as well as contributing to ongoing community initiatives aimed at preventing similar tragedies. The organizers encourage everyone to participate and show their support for the families and the emergency services.
How to Participate
Those wishing to participate in the remembrance walk can register in advance or on the day of the event. Payments can be made at the park starting from 10:15 am. For any inquiries or to speak with a member of the organizing committee, individuals can reach out via email at info@buncranapiertragedy.com.
A Time for Reflection and Support
The 10th anniversary of the Buncrana Pier tragedy is not just a time to remember the lives lost but also a time to celebrate the resilience and unity of the community. Through these fundraisers and commemorative events, the community aims to ensure that the memory of the victims lives on and that the support for the emergency services remains strong.
As the anniversary approaches, the community of Buncrana stands together, ready to honor the past and support the future. The events are a testament to the enduring spirit of the community and the importance of coming together in times of sorrow and remembrance.
