Tragic Accident in Kilkenny: Four Horses Killed in Collision with Van

A tragic accident in Kilkenny resulted in the death of four horses when they were struck by a van. The incident occurred early in the morning on October 17, 2025. Emergency services responded promptly to the scene located at Junction 8 on the M9 Southbound.
Details of the Incident
Authorities received reports of the crash around 6 AM. Upon arrival, they found the bodies of four horses on the road. Fortunately, the van’s occupants were unharmed.
Response from Emergency Services
- Local Gardaí and fire brigades from Kilkenny city and Thomastown were dispatched to the scene.
- Emergency teams implemented traffic management procedures to ensure safety.
- Kilkenny Fire Services set up privacy screens to shield the scene from onlookers.
- Crews from Kilkenny County Council assisted with the cleanup.
Investigation and Owner Identification
Authorities are currently working to identify the owner of the horses involved in the accident. In a statement, a Garda spokesperson confirmed that no injuries were reported among the vehicle’s occupants.
This tragic event highlights the dangers faced by both motorists and animals on roadways. The response from emergency services was swift, demonstrating their commitment to public safety in Kilkenny.